For Jade Otsig, the Humboldt and District Walk to Cure Diabetes has made her feel feel more comfortable with herself and living with Type 1 diabetes.
The 17-year-old JDRF ambassador has joined the walk every year since she was diagnosed four years ago at 13.
鈥淚t shows me how many people there actually are, especially in [Humboldt], who also live with Type 1 diabetes, and who have to put up with the same struggles that I do everyday,鈥� Otsig said.
The walk is on for its 15th year this June to raise money and awareness for those with Type 1 diabetes.
鈥淸The walk] creates awareness, and makes it easier for me knowing that everyone around me knows how to help,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ot just me, but other people around me.鈥�
Those participating in the walk on June 2 from the Humboldt Uniplex will start east on Highway 5 to Main Street, before heading south to the train tracks near Fifth Avenue and following them west back to the Uniplex.
Type 1 diabetes is still a struggle for the 93,000 people living with it in the province, Otsig said, despite it being a disease one can live with and monitor.
Fitting medications and larger meals into a busy sports routine was 鈥渢he hardest adjustment,鈥� she said. It鈥檚 important for folks 鈥渢o be able to recognize how common it is, and see the actual struggles of people who have it.鈥�
According to JDRF, over 80 cents for every dollar raised will go directly to diabetes research and improving the lives of the over 93,000 folks in Saskatchewan living with Type 1. More than $30,000 was raised last year, said walk committee member Marie Strasser.
Registration will begin at 10 am on June 2, followed by opening remarks at 11 am before the walk commences at 11:15 am. Participants can join as a team or individually, will be given snacks and drinks at points along the route, and may join a barbecue lunch afterwards.
