[twitter]World Diabetes Day is celebrated on November 14, Sir Frederick Banting‘s birthday. Banting discovered insulin, an invaluable discovery for diabetics around the world.

November is set aside for Diabetes Awareness Month, but November 14 is extra special as monuments around the world are bathed in blue to shine a light on diabetes awareness.

Awareness. That’s what it is all about. With 9 million Canadians living with diabetes or pre-diabetes, having people become more aware will lead to reduced diagnoses, more empathy for those living with diabetes, and a healthier population. Take this test to see how you fare with the various risk factors. It’s easy.

After that, spend a minute to learn about what it’s like to be the parent of a kid at school with diabetes. Maybe take a minute to join Team Diabetes and set fundraising and mileage goals on your calendar to see the world, run marathons, and raise money. That’s what I do.

Now that you’re aware, back to the blue. In Calgary we celebrate World Diabetes Day each year by making the Langevin Bridge blue.

This year, the Calgary Tower had LED lights installed allowing it to change colour. The tower was turned blue to celebrate World Diabetes Day.

We have a big blue ring out near the airport that is supposed to signify traveling light, but I see as a World Diabetes Day symbol on November 14.

And, my lights are up too.

It was wonderful to drive around the city tonight and see so much blue. A wonderful gesture to raise awareness for a cause that affects so many.

SEE ALL THAT’S BEEN SEEN IN CALGARY