Ambassador Stories

Get to know some of our Sun Life Walk to Cure Diabetes for JDRF ambassadors from across the country! Each have worked diligently to raise much-needed funds and awareness for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. 

 
Vanessa, New Brunswick Image

Vanessa, New Brunswick

“Hello, my name is Vanessa Galluchon.  I was diagnosed at 13 months old.  I have been fighting for a cure since the beginning of this journey. We are fortunate that children living with this disease have JDRF working hard to support us and do lots of research to find a cure.  Living with type 1 diabetes is doable, but not easy.”

Oceanne, Quebec Image

Oceanne, Quebec

“It has been 10 years since I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D).  T1D is with me whether I'm in class, eating or playing sports. It never lets me breathe for more than two seconds.  A cure for me would mean that I could play sports, sleep and eat without a second thought.”

Asher, Manitoba Image

Asher, Manitoba

“Asher is our hero. He wakes up every day with a smile on his face ready for an adventure! He was diagnosed on a Thursday, two weeks after his first birthday. Asher's entire class got involved with his Walk this year, and one of Asher's friends asked him if he would still have T1D when he grows up - he said "maybe I won't. They’re going to find a cure one day.” This is why we Walk — for hope, and for a cure because we really believe that Asher’s hope will come true.”

Miriam & Mason, Ontario Image

Miriam & Mason, Ontario

“JDRF and the Walk are a huge part of our lives. Mason has been an ambassador for over seven years. We have met so many wonderful people that we now call family: our T1D tribe. We have been blessed to fundraise and participate in so many events bringing us closer to a cure, awareness, support, and inclusion. These events are life changing, bringing the T1D community together all for the greater good. Turn Type One to Type None.”

Emerson, Alberta Image

Emerson, Alberta

“Hi!  I'm Emerson. My family and I have participated in the JDRF Walk since my diagnosis at age 3. We have raised over $100k. I'm always struggling to balance my type 1 diabetes and school. If my blood sugar is too high or too low, I find it hard to concentrate or think straight. My friends are very supportive, though they also get worried when my blood sugars drop. I’m hopeful that a cure will be found in my lifetime, and I will do what I can to support the team at JDRF.”

Leia, British Columbia Image

Leia, British Columbia

“The Sun Life Walk to Cure Diabetes for JDRF is important to us because it gives us an opportunity to meet and connect with others that are affected by T1D. It also helps to raise awareness and brings us hope that one day there will be a cure!”