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What an exciting winter we Canadians have experienced as host of the Winter Olympics.
The excitement is now being replaced by the wonder of spring. Spring is a time of new growth and beauty and a time of reflection. Human tragedies such as those experienced after the earthquake in Haiti have taught us a great deal about the strength of the human spirit. They also remind us how fragile and vulnerable we are in so many ways. For people who live with chronic diseases like diabetes and rely on medications for survival, we have learned the valuable lesson of the
importance of preparedness.
This issue of Dialogue features an article by Elizabeth Gavel that outlines the importance of being prepared in case of disasters, which can strike any of us at any time in this changing world. Gavel gives us great practical advice on the supplies we should have on hand at home. I urge you all to consider organizing an emergency kit should we ever need it.
Canada is no stranger to the diabetes epidemic that is growing at a disturbing rate worldwide. The Aboriginal communities in Canada are particularly afflicted by the disease. The article by Margaret Webb outlines some of the reasons that this population is particularly prone to getting diabetes. One of the main reasons cited is the inaccessibility and prohibitive cost of healthy foods. The article describes
many positive initiatives to address the unique obstacles faced by this group of people living with diabetes. By implementing these initiatives and introducing healthy foods into their communities, there is renewed hope that the epidemic of diabetes will not spiral out of control.
Enjoy the fabulous recipes featuring different types of nuts, and the article highlighting the important health benefits of eating them. And whether or not you participate in the popular fitness programs described by Barb Gormley, remember that it’s not as important what type of activity you do so
long as you’re doing some kind of regular physical activity. Spring is a great time for
yard work and gardening, so I urge you to get out there and participate in any form
of physical exercise that you can do and that you enjoy.
I hope that you enjoy this issue of Dialogue, as well as the freshness of spring. Summer is just around the corner.
— Diane Donat MD MSc MEd FRCPS
Editor-in-Chief