Diabetes for a Day

Kevin Peters will never forget the first time he had his finger pricked to test his blood sugar. It wasn’t for him so much as it was for his daughter, Sophia, who, at 7, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

In managing the disease, Kevin and his wife, Kim, took all the necessary steps to keep Sophia healthy, including examining their family’s eating habits.

“Low carbs, low sugar and I lost 20 lbs!” The St. John’s, NL businessman recalls of his efforts to support Sophia.

“I instantly felt better and saw an opportunity to create T1D awareness by educating people about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

From this, Kevin created “Diabetes for a Day,” a fun fundraising challenge that encourages participants to make healthy lifestyle choices in support of T1D. For the initial program, which ran for three months, Kevin brought together thirty friends and community leaders who donated to participate. For 90 days, they followed a healthy eating plan, engaged in educational seminars and fitness activities. Through social media and a group app, participants connected with others for inspiration and support. They also had their blood sugar levels tested at the beginning and end of the challenge.

“It was eye opening for so many and we’ve seen extremely positive lifestyle changes as a result,” he explains.

In its first year, “Diabetes for a Day” was an enormous success, raising $35,000. Through a Federal Government fund matching program, more than $67,000 has now gone to JDRF in support of T1D research.

Given its success, Kevin plans to continue the unique fundraiser, with the hopes of, one day, getting other provinces involved.

“Teaching healthier habits that help reduce healthcare costs while raising funds for better treatments and cures for T1D,” he says. “This fundraiser is a win-win for everyone.”