Mr. Speaker, on November 14 the world will recognize the birthday of a Canadian hero, Sir Frederick Banting. Dr. Banting's co-discovery of insulin in 1921 has saved countless lives. It is in his honour that November 14 is marked as World Diabetes Day, in the heart of Diabetes Awareness Month.
A million and a half Canadians have been diagnosed with diabetes, but horribly it is feared that some 750,000 more suffer from the condition but are themselves unaware.
I am honoured to serve as the campaign chairperson for the annual fundraising campaign of the Canadian Diabetes Association Saint John Branch. The CDA has played a key role in maintaining and expanding diabetes research and has this year alone provided over $5.3 million to various projects nationwide.
I encourage all Canadians to think of those who suffer from this condition on November 14 and to give generously to this valiant cause.