Mr. Speaker, today is Diabetes Day on the Hill.
Across Canada, 11 million people live with diabetes or pre-diabetes. I want to thank the representatives of Diabetes Canada here today for their hard work and advocacy.
To mark this day, I am launching the defeat diabetes step challenge. Each of us can lead by example, embracing a healthy lifestyle and increasing our physical activity. During the challenge, we will be tracking the footsteps of members who participate, and encouraging some friendly competition.
I challenge each member in this place to walk more, take the stairs, skip the bus, and do their part to champion physical activity, which can make a difference for those living with type-2 diabetes.
I hope you, Mr. Speaker, and all members will join the all-party diabetes caucus in the Commonwealth Room at 4:30, and take up the challenge. Together, we can defeat diabetes. It starts with step one.