November is recognized as Diabetes Awareness Month all across Canada by the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA).
The volunteers at the North Perth – North Wellington Branch in Harriston offer the chance to help them lead the fight against diabetes by canvassing a block, a street or a rural route in the annual appeal campaign.
Chairman George Van Ankum begins in mid-October to visit his friends and neighbours to canvass for funds and to help raise awareness of this chronic condition that continues to affect over three million Canadians and their families.
Convenors Alice Van Ankum and Irma Ternan prepare hundreds of canvass kits and look forward to seeing the volunteer canvassers.
Students can receive information from counsellors at school or contact the branch office at 519-338-3181, as canvassing is an approved activity for volunteer hours.
The CDA promotes the health of Canadians through a strong nationwide network of volunteers, employees, health care professionals, researchers, partners and supporters. In the struggle against this global epidemic, their expertise is recognized around the world.
Learn the risks
Learn the risks and watch for any signs and symptoms of diabetes. When left undiagnosed or uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss, and amputation.
Simply being over 40 or overweight increases a person’s risk for diabetes. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are also contributing factors.
Making an appointment with a health care provider and having a blood test is advised for everyone who may be at risk. Keeping blood sugar levels under control with dedicated management is the best defense to help prevent the onset of complications.
Public support benefits people affected by diabetes in every community. Donations of time to canvass and donations of money support help to fund research initiatives to find that elusive cure for diabetes.
Volunteers can be reached at 519-338-3181 at the Diabetes Information Centre located at 94B Elora St. S. in Harriston, N0G 1Z0.
“Help someone you know – help fund a cure for diabetes,” the CDA urges.
