For the last 10 years Aldergrove’s Greater Vancouver Zoo has hosted the Telus Walk to Cure Diabetes. It is a 4-km walk around the zoo in support of ongoing efforts to find a cure for type 1 diabetes.
The Telus Walk to Cure Diabetes is an annual celebration of the hope of one day living in a world free from insulin injections, finger pokes, and the constant threat of developing complications. It raises awareness of type 1 diabetes, and crucial funds for research into cures, treatments, drugs and therapies.
This year’s fundraising goal at the Fraser Valley Walk at the zoo was $380,000 and another $670,000 at the Vancouver City Walk. A total of $1.4 million was raised across B.C. last year.
Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. While its causes are not yet entirely understood, scientists believe both genetic factors and environmental triggers are involved. Over 300,000 Canadians live with type 1 diabetes and is increasing by 3-5% annually, with the greatest risk is in children five to nine years of age.
For information on the commitment and efforts of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, visit their website at: www.jdrf.ca