Leading the Fight

From coast-to-coast-to-coast, advocates, volunteers and partners are helping to advance our fight against diabetes

Debra Porter - Mount Pearl, Newfoundland

Debra Porter Working with the team in Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, since the office opened 13 years ago, Debra began her journey with the Canadian Diabetes Association and Clothesline® as an office clerk. Seven years later, she was promoted to Operations Manager and has been a major contributor to Clothesline® and the Business Operations team ever since.

Debra has been living with type 1 diabetes for 27 years. John, her husband of 20 years, also has type 1 diabetes, and Debra candidly discusses the daily issues they each face, including numerous injections, checking of glucose levels and watching their intake of sugars.

“It been quite a struggle with John’s health over the years, resulting in many trips to the emergency room,” she says. “In the past, diabetes had taken control of our lives; however, with education and advanced medicine, we have been able to regain some control.”

Today, Debra and John follow a healthier lifestyle along with their two daughters, Bailey (11) and Hannah (9). “Having diabetes forces you to take ownership and accept that a healthy lifestyle is a major part of diabetes management,” Debra adds. “By eating healthy, exercising and being educated, it is possible to restore balance. Be informed, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

This year, while reminding Canadians that giving is always in style, Clothesline® celebrates its 25th Anniversary across Canada. Donors can schedule a free Clothesline® pick-up right from their door by calling 1-800-505-5525 or visiting diabetes.ca/clothesline. All proceeds from donations are used to support the more than 9 million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes.