Mr. Speaker, November is Diabetes Awareness Month. On November 14 Insulin Day was celebrated worldwide. These events are especially significant to me because the discoverer of insulin, Sir Frederick Banting, was born in the township of New Tecumseh which is part of my riding of Simcoe—Gray.
Dr. Banting has long held a special place in the hearts of Canadians and indeed the entire world for his discovery of a cure for diabetes. I am sure that each of us have a family member, friend or a neighbour who has directly benefited from Dr. Banting's discovery.
In memory of a great man and a great Canadian, I encourage everyone to actively promote the role of education in the prevention and care of diabetes. Diabetes is a serious and rising health problem throughout the world, disabling more than 100 million people.
We owe a debt to Dr. Banting. We can repay our debt through active participation in the prevention and care of diabetes. Colleagues, join me in this challenge.