World Diabetes Day.

World Diabetes Day, 2008.

Because more than 250 million people throughout the world live with some kind of diabetes.  By 2025, this number could reach 380 million.  And that statistic includes increased rates of both type 1 and type 2.

Because more than half a million children under 15 live with type 1 diabetes.  That would be worldwide.

Because type 2 diabetes is beginning to affect children in both developed and developing countries, with cases reported as young as eight years old.  Yes, I said type 2.

Because while those in developed countries have access to the latest and greatest treatments, there are still 75,000 children living with diabetes in developing countries who have minimal supplies and support.

Because it’s been 87 years since Banting and Best developed insulin.  

Because the world should come together and say, no more of this.  We should demand treatment and education for all.  And we should all be able to dream and hope for a cure.