May 29, 2023 Supporting kids just like him

Miles Dyer may look like your average teenager, but to those in the diabetes community, he’s a superstar. Since 2017, the 16-year-old who lives in Winnipeg has singlehandedly raised more than $10,000 by setting up his lemonade stand multiple times every summer in his neighbourhood, at community garage sales, fundraising walks, his school, outdoor markets, parks and more in support of Diabetes Canada’s Put a Squeeze on Diabetes campaign. The money he’s raised has sent kids, who like him, live with type 1 diabetes to one of Diabetes Canada’s nine D-Camps across the country, including Camp Briardale which he attended. His motivation is simple:

I feel like every kid in Canada with diabetes should be able to experience the fun of D-Camps.

Diagnosed at 12 months old, Miles has also shared his story at fundraising events. His volunteer efforts earned him a Diabetes Canada 2021 National Young Volunteer Award. We talked to him about living with diabetes and how camp changed his life.

How would you describe what it’s like to live with diabetes?

Living with diabetes is a constant struggle to keep track and manage every single day-to-day thing.

Can you describe your camp experience? How did it impact your life?

D-Camps impacted my life in a very positive way because I was able to feel at home away from home with all my friends and other people around me who know or have diabetes and go through the same daily struggles as I do.

What was the best part of camp?

Being able to hang out with friends for a whole week.

What is your favourite memory?

Playing Capture the Flag on a very giant hill.

How did it feel being there with other kids who understand what it’s like to live with diabetes? 

It was very reassuring that we all have to go through the same thing and that we’re not alone in this.

Did you learn more about managing diabetes at camp?

I learned tips and tricks about managing my diabetes from different friends, counsellors and others.

Why do you think people should raise money to support D Camps?

People should support D-Camps because they know their donations will help put smiles on the faces of kid with diabetes.

Did you know?

Diabetes can make kids feel lonely, different, and left out. At Diabetes Canada’s D-Camps—the only national, medically supervised camp programs for children and young adults living with type 1 diabetes—kids with diabetes like Miles can be kids again. Learn more about how you can help.