I started running for Team Diabetes to help find a cure for diabetes for my friend who struggled with gestational diabetes. Little did I know that just a year and a half later, my young son Devon would be diagnosed with type 1 diabetes...

He was only in kindergarten. I was lucky to notice the warning signs so fast. I knew what to look for.

Yet, knowing and living it is different. My son has nightmares about dying, and he's afraid to go to bed in case his blood sugar drops too low and he dies in his sleep.

This shouldn't have to happen to anyone.

While Devon's story may be emotional, I'm touched by all of the stories I've heard from friends, and other people running to bring greater focus and awareness to diabetes. Each story is an inspiration in the fight against diabetes.

These real-life stories – and so many others – are why your secure online gift to support the Canadian Diabetes Association's critical diabetes research, advocacy and education programs is so important.

Your donation today is the most powerful way to help find a cure and improve the lives of more than 9 million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes.

Thank you.

Nicole Calvert-McKeag

• Support advocacy efforts across the country and build partnerships with governments in an effort to increase funding for diabetes programs and improve access to diabetes care, medications and supplies.
  
  
• Support 107 critical research initiatives across the country.
  
  
• Find new treatments and a cure for Devon and the more than 9 million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes.