When B.A.D. is Good… A little sibling rivalry and support can go a long, long way!
Flash back to Christmas 2006. A family conversation overhead. A brother slighted. A challenge taken on. Two lives changed forever. Hollywood script? Nope, something even better. The start of B.A.D. (Brothers Against Diabetes), an ongoing journey that has Paul and Kevin van Berkel running in pursuit of a cure for diabetes.
Their Team Diabetes journeys started off differently, however…
Paul (on the right, in photo) first signed up to run in the 2007 Honolulu Marathon as he saw it as a great way to raise funds and awareness for diabetes and travel at the same time. He wasn’t a runner but was active in a number of sports, and since he has type 1 diabetes it was a natural fit. Paul experienced firsthand the benefits of the education and support available from the Canadian Diabetes Association, so it was a real win-win opportunity he did not want to miss.
Kevin, on the other hand, didn’t have Team Diabetes or anything like it on his radar until that fateful Christmas. The conversation overheard? Paul asking his brother-in-law if he would be running with him in Honolulu. The slight? Paul not asking Kevin to join him and suggesting that he couldn’t run around the block, let alone a marathon. The challenge taken on? Kevin thought he would “show his big brother” so he quit smoking and signed up for Team Diabetes Honolulu much to the surprise (and worry) of his family. Fear of a heart attack and thoughts of having to call the paramedics aside, Kevin began his journey with one tentative, but determined, step.
Fast forward to April 2011 and two lives very much changed. Honolulu Marathon: done. Ottawa Half Marathon: done. Twice. Disney World Goofy Challenge (half marathon Saturday, full marathon Sunday): done. And each with personal bests in both events. Money raised so far: $25,000!
So what’s next for Team B.A.D.? Cayman Islands and a goal to surpass $40,000 by the end of the year! A daunting task for some perhaps, but not for Paul and Kevin. They just keep gaining momentum the longer they go. Read on to learn more about this dynamic duo of diabetes champions.
Q: What keeps you motivated on your journey with Team Diabetes?
Paul: There are many things. I see it as one of the best fundraising activities for the Association. It would take an army of canvassers to match the funds raised by Team Diabetes team members. Running with my brother is the icing on the cake and his support is truly amazing. Kevin has surprised a lot of people and I am one of them! The ultimate motivation though is to be around to hear the news that a cure has been found. Great progress is being made and it is in part because of the money B.A.D. and Team Diabetes brings in.
Kevin: The fundraising we have accomplished and the huge support from family and sponsors has given me an unparalleled sense of achievement and motivation. But most of all doing this with my brother, my idol, who is still healthy. He keeps me motivated and running event after event with Team Diabetes.
Q: What is the reaction of friends, family and colleagues to your Team Diabetes participation?
Paul: The first reaction is always envy. They all would like to travel but without the fundraising, training or running. The second is: How can I help? We have been blessed to have such a large support web. Family, friends and businesses are anxious to contribute whether by donating or attending our fundraising events. They look forward to hearing about our next event and the war stories upon our return!
Kevin: When I signed up for my first event, told Paul and my family, they thought I was nuts and that it was a long shot. They actually feared for my health! My family and friends, however skeptical, always gave me the support and encouragement that I needed. This was a great boost in training for my first event and continues to be as we take on each challenge.
Q: What have been the most rewarding aspects of running with Team Diabetes?
Paul: I think that the awareness my campaigning has raised has been the greatest reward. Many people in my circle of friends were unaware of the fact that I have type 1 diabetes. This is a testament to the Association and the support they provide to people living with diabetes to help them lead as healthy a lifestyle as possible.
Kevin: There are many great aspects to the program. Training is a great way to stay active and maintain a healthier lifestyle. The fundraising efforts are always rewarding and the camaraderie amongst the Team Diabetes family is very comforting and infectious!
Q: What has been your favourite event to date and why have you chosen the Cayman Islands as your next challenge?
Paul: I would have to say that running the Goofy Challenge in Disney has been my favourite event so far. My wife Krista was with me as well as Kevin. The Cayman Islands event is perfect timing as I will be turning 50 that week. I hope to have Krista with me to enjoy the sun and company of other Team Diabetes participants. Kevin will also be there attempting to better my time. Maybe this will be the event he does it...not!
Kevin: I don’t have a favourite, as they each have had special meaning to me. Hawaii because it was my first. Ottawa because it’s my home town. Disney World because it was the Goofy Challenge and a personal best. Paul and I have chosen the Cayman Islands because it is a warm climate better suited for our aching old muscles! I also think the Island has a lot to offer as a new adventure.
Q: Any other thoughts you would like to share with our Pacesetter readers who are contemplating their first Team Diabetes event?
Paul: I wasn’t a runner prior to joining Team Diabetes and I have seen all shapes and sizes of people pass me as I run. If you are motivated to succeed you can accomplish your goal of running or walking your first event. The feeling you get as you complete your fundraising goal is almost as sweet as the feeling you get when you cross the finish line!
Kevin: When someone decides to join Team Diabetes, they have expectations and a vision of what to expect. I can tell you it’s even better than you think! Getting the funds raised is incredible, getting through the training is very satisfying, and getting to do this with someone who inspires you is amazing. Finding a cure rather than the alternative will be exhilarating. I can’t wait!
Follow their journey and read their blog at www.brothersagainstdiabetes.com.