People with Diabetes

More than 9 million Canadians are living with diabetes or prediabetes - meet the people behind the numbers

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Jung-Yul Kim - Toronto, ON

Jung-Yul Kim was once a professional athlete playing football in the C.F.L. But when he was diagnosed with diabetes in the spring of 2001, he was forced to retire from the game. He also had to make some significant diet changes because, up until his diagnosis, Kim had been eating whatever he wanted to get enough calories to play as an offensive lineman.

“One of the challenges of being diagnosed with diabetes is I had to change my diet. I lost close to 30 pounds in three months, mostly from not eating the way I used to,” Kim says. “I also became very depressed, due to the combination of losing my source of income and dealing with the disease.”

Nine years later, Jung-Yul Kim - who is now an actor - has overcome his depression and is maintaining a positive outlook on life.

“One thing that really helped me get through my dark days was having an open dialogue with my healthcare providers, loved ones and friends,” says Kim. “And I encourage you to talk to your friends, family and healthcare providers and lean on the Canadian Diabetes Association for the support and help you need if you, your family or friends are diagnosed with diabetes.”

Jung-Yul Kim is one of many people helping the Association lead the fight against diabetes while we work to find a cure.