SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Living with Type 1 Diabetes

Honourable senators, today, I rise to bring attention to an urgent and often misunderstood health challenge: Type 1 diabetes. This autoimmune disease impacts over 300,000 Canadians, with diagnoses growing at an alarming rate of 4.4% annually. Contrary to popular belief, Type 1 diabetes is not exclusively a childhood condition — 71% of individuals are diagnosed in adulthood.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. This means that those living with Type 1 diabetes must rely on insulin therapy to survive. But let us be clear: Insulin is not a cure, only a means of managing blood sugar levels. This is a daily struggle requiring constant vigilance — sometimes more than 300 decisions a day regarding food, activity and insulin doses, just to maintain stability.

The ripple effects of this disease extend far beyond the individual. Families with a Type 1 diabetic face a 15-times higher likelihood of another member being diagnosed, making it not just a personal but a familial battle. Globally, over 108,000 children develop Type 1 diabetes each year — a number that underscores the pressing need for awareness and action.

Type 1 diabetes does not discriminate. Everyone is at risk, and recognizing the symptoms — unexplained weight loss, extreme thirst and frequent urination — can save lives. It is critical for Canadians to be aware that early detection is often the difference between life and death.

Despite advancements, living with this disease remains incredibly difficult. The life expectancy for those with Type 1 diabetes is, on average, 10 to 12 years shorter. For many, it feels like fighting a relentless battle every day — not just against the disease but also for research funding and improved treatments.

Organizations like Breakthrough T1D, formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, are leading the charge toward better support, awareness and, hopefully, a cure. Their work reminds us that progress is possible when we prioritize advocacy, education and investment in medical research.

Colleagues, I had the honour of meeting with representatives of Breakthrough T1D recently in a delegation led by Newfoundland and Labradorian Maya Martinovic, a young woman who has Type 1 diabetes. Her courage and commitment motivated me to make this statement today.

Honourable colleagues, this is not just about statistics; it’s about lives, families and futures. As we continue to shape health policy, let us ensure that Canadians living with Type 1 diabetes have the resources, the support and the hope that they need. Together, we can work toward a world where this disease no longer claims years or lives.

Thank you, colleagues.