Red Deerians close to raising $2,500 for Type 1 diabetes research

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Klassen has been a type 1 diabetic since 1992.

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“Over the last 30 years, the advancements in medicine and technology to support diabetes is amazing. Better insulin and medications to support technology like the Libre and numerous Insulin Pumps. Donations made today help with the efforts to end this disease one day,” he writes on the JDRF donation page.

READ: Run, bike, or lift to help Sun Life Ride to Defeat Diabetes

While advancements in treatments are progressing, Molloy shared how he has witnessed friends struggling with the ever rising costs relating to type 1 diabetes.

He says it can be difficult “regulating their blood sugar levels, especially if they can’t afford to get an insulin pump. I know that it can be quite expensive just getting the proper care for it.”

This May, the Alberta government had announced the discontinuation of the Insulin Pump Therapy Program which would have impacted coverage for nearly 4,000 Albertans. In July, the government cancelled this intention to maintain the current coverage plan.

The federal government has also been called in early October to take more action on improving accessibility for diabetes treatment and prevention, as supplies can range in the hundreds to thousands of dollars.

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With six staff members from the Scotiabank branch participating in the ride, they have so far raised $2,387.50.

Bike donation wall at the Scotiabank on Red Deer’s Gaetz and 45 St. for the Sun Life Ride to Defeat Diabetes fundraiser. (Supplied)

His third year participating, Molloy stated prior to COVID, teams would ride stationary bikes in Bower Mall for the cause. Moving virtual during the pandemic, he says this year, the team will take a spinning class and a walk together at Bower Ponds to spread the message to the community.

READ: Revolution Ride raises funds to battle Type 1 Diabetes

Scotiabank branches on Lancaster and in Edson and Lacombe are also participating in the ride. Red Deer’s goal is to raise $4,000 in total.

To donate, visit the JDRF Ride to Defeat Diabetes website.