Hello Lions of Alberta,

I have been asked to forward the following fundraising message from Diabetes Canada regarding year-end support.

For those of you who have already donated to Diabetes Canada or MD C Lions Cavalcade for Diabetes we thank you for your donations.

For those who havent made a donation to support Diabetes Canada's work in awareness, research and D-Camp Jean Nelson now is the time to consider donating to  

Diabetes Canada as well as LCI Global cause of diabetes awareness.

Again thanks to all who have already donated, and thanks in advance for any and all donations we will receive.

Dennis Stevenson, MD C Lions Cavalcade for Diabetes / MD C Diabetes Chairperson

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An End-of-Year Appeal to Alberta Lions Clubs -  Serving Alberta Children Living with Diabetes

Dear Lions,

As 2026 draws to a close, Diabetes Canada faces a growing need to ensure Albertans  impacted by diabetes continue to receive the support, resources, and life-changing experiences they depend on. With more than 587,000 Albertans living with diabetes and an estimated 28% of Albertans living with diabetes or prediabetes, the demand for our programs has never been greater

 

For generations, Lions Clubs have strengthened communities through compassion, generosity, and service. As we approach the end of 2026, we invite Lions across Alberta to help ensure that children and families affected by diabetes have access to the support they need during one of the most challenging public health issues facing our province.

 

Today, diabetes impacts hundreds of thousands of Albertans and is projected to continue growing at an alarming rate. Diabetes contributes to 40% of heart attacks, 30% of strokes, 50% of kidney failure requiring dialysis, and 70% of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations. The disease costs Alberta's health care system an estimated $556 million annually. 

 

At Diabetes Canada, we work every day to help people live well with diabetes through advocacy, education, research, community support programs, and our nationally recognized D-Camps. Through these programs, children and families gain the confidence, knowledge, and support network needed to navigate life with diabetes. 

 

The Life-Changing Impact of D-Camps

For a child living with type 1 diabetes, camp is more than just a week away from home. D-Camps provide a safe, medically supervised environment where children learn diabetes self-management skills, build confidence, develop leadership abilities, and form lifelong friendships with peers who understand their daily experiences.

For many campers, D-Camp is the first time they meet another child living with diabetes. Families often tell us that camp transforms not only their child's confidence but their entire family's outlook on life with diabetes.

 

As participation continues to grow, so does our need for community support to ensure no child is turned away because of financial barriers.

 

Our End-of-Year Need

As we close out 2026, we are asking Alberta Lions Clubs to consider a special year-end gift in support of Diabetes Canada,  D-Camps and our programs serving Alberta children and families.

 

Your support could:

1. Help subsidize camp experiences for children living with type 1 diabetes

2. Support trained medical staff and diabetes educators at camp

3. Provide education and support resources for Alberta families

4. Ensure children gain the confidence and independence needed to manage their condition successfully

 

Whether your club contributes $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000, or more, every gift helps change the trajectory of a young person's life.

 

The Lions' long-standing commitment to supporting children, health initiatives, and community well-being aligns perfectly with Diabetes Canada's mission. Together, we can ensure that Alberta children living with diabetes have the opportunity to thrive, build resilience, and realize that they are never alone in their journey.

 

As the year comes to a close, we hope you will consider making Diabetes Canada one of your year-end charitable priorities.

Thank you for your continued service to communities across Alberta and for considering this opportunity to create a lasting impact in the lives of children and families living with diabetes.

With gratitude,

 

Nicole 

Nicole Holder-Dulson  (she/her)          

Executive Director, Community Fundraising and Events

 

Diabetes Canada 

1000-170 University Ave,

Toronto, ON M5H 3B3