Alberta Diabetes Foundation

06/02/2026

Great news! We’ve officially extended the nomination deadline for all categories until June 30th. The Hummingbirds Awards Gala is our moment to honour the incredible changemakers fighting diabetes...from groundbreaking researchers and dedicated organizations to the passionate individuals supporting the cause.

If you’re looking for inspiration on the kind of impact these awards celebrate, look no further than last year’s Emerging Researcher of the Year, Dr. Alice Carr.

After earning a PhD at the University of Exeter Medical School, Dr. Carr brought that expertise to the University of Alberta as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Alberta Diabetes Institute.

Driven by innovation and passion, Dr. Carr’s research focuses on type 1 diabetes—specifically how we can better understand, track, and treat it. As a true connector of data, teams, and ideas, she works to make clinical trials run smarter and faster so new treatments can reach people sooner.

Collaborating closely with Alberta’s islet transplant team, Dr. Carr looks beyond just the clinical data to focus on how treatments can improve a patient’s everyday freedom, flexibility, and overall quality of life.

Today’s emerging researcher could be tomorrow’s leading scientist, and Dr. Alice Carr is proof of that promise.

But remember, the Hummingbirds Awards celebrate all corners of our community, including the outstanding organizations and everyday heroes supporting the fight against diabetes.

Do you know a researcher, organization, or individual shifting the landscape of diabetes care? Don't let their hard work go unnoticed 💙

👉 Submit your nominations across all categories on our website by June 30th:
https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/awards-criteria-2026

05/28/2026

Meet Olga S., one of our incredible volunteers at the Alberta Diabetes Foundation! 🌟

Kind, intelligent, and deeply passionate, Olga’s dedication truly shone through at our recent Hummingbirds Awards Gala. Throughout the evening, she helped our guests understand the profound impact of their donations—from funding groundbreaking diabetes research and supporting emerging researchers in Alberta, to investing in life-changing lab equipment and bringing vital help to vulnerable communities.

With the help of Olga and our dedicated volunteers, we were able to successfully share our message and mission with every guest!

But Olga’s brilliance doesn’t stop there. She is a Neuroscience Researcher across both UofC & UofA, the President of the Neuroscience Students Association at UofA, and is completing her BSc Honours in Neuroscience this year (Class of '26)! 🎓🧠

For Olga, the mission is also personal. She brings unmatched "Big sister energy" to supporting her younger sister, Yuliya, who lives with Type 1 diabetes. We recently shared some of our ADF stickers with Yuliya, a small token for a brave little one, and a reminder that community matters. We’re so honoured to be part of their journey. 💙

Inspired by Olga’s story? Learn how you can volunteer and support the diabetes landscape in Alberta at https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/volunteer-opportunities

05/22/2026

What an incredible evening at our Innovations in Research event! 🧬🔬

We are so grateful to every donor and supporter who joined us to explore the vital work happening right here in Alberta. Your presence and ongoing generosity are fundamentally changing how we understand diabetes, paving a bold new way forward in active research, care, and treatment.

An evening like this wouldn't be possible without exceptional leadership, and we want to extend a huge thank you to Jim Kanerva, Vice Chair of our Board of Directors, for sharing how our strategic vision is turning into real-world action. We also send our warm thanks to Brooke Rose, Director of Development, Advancement for the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, for her wonderful insights on the power of collaborative community advancement.

We are equally indebted to the brilliant minds who brought the science to life for our guests. Thank you to Dr. Sue Tsai for masterfully breaking down the fascinating ways our immune systems and metabolisms interact, and to Dr. Mourad Ferdaoussi for sharing his vital work on cell survival and his inspiring commitment to bilingual research.

A special thank you goes to Dr. Jelena Kolic, who did a fantastic job on our research panel, connecting directly with the public and making complex science accessible to everyone.

Make sure to stay tuned to our social media pages for upcoming research updates, breakthrough stories, and more highlights from this special evening.

If you're feeling inspired to keep the momentum going, the Birdies for Kids program presented by AltaLink is now officially open! This is a phenomenal opportunity to double your donation and maximize your impact on diabetes research right here in Alberta.

Give today!
🔗 https://rogerscharityclassic.com/charities/albertadiabetesfoundation/

Photography: Jake Bradley

05/18/2026

Happy Victoria Day from the Alberta Diabetes Foundation! 🍁🇨🇦

Please note that we will be closed on May 18, 2026, and will reopen on May 19, 2026.

In the spirit of celebration, consider making a meaningful impact with a donation. Contribute through our Birdies for Kids program, where your donation will be doubled.

Click here to donate and make a difference today!

05/10/2026

Motherhood doesn’t always look like a Hallmark card. Sometimes it looks like a 3 a.m. blood sugar check, a high-risk pregnancy journey, or a heart that carries a beautiful memory instead of a hand to hold.

At the Alberta Diabetes Foundation, we see the invisible work, the constant math, and the fierce resilience of the women in our community. Whether you are managing your own health, caring for a child, or honoring a loved one, today we send our love to you.

This virtual bouquet is for you. 💙💐 Which one are you holding today? Let us know in the comments.

Read a Story of Resilience 🌱
For a closer look at the strength it takes to navigate motherhood and T1D, read "A Mother's Story: The Needles That Carried a Life" here: https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/news-alberta-diabetes-foundation/a-mothers-story-the-needles-that-carried-a-life

Support Diabetes Research 🔬
Our "For The Ones Who Raised Us" 50/50 raffle celebrates every kind of family—from mothers and siblings to mentors—while supporting vital diabetes research and care.

Enter the raffle and show your support here: https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/for-the-ones-who-raised-us-50/50

05/08/2026

Behind every person managing diabetes is a support system that helped them get there. Maybe it’s the mother who never missed a midnight check, the mentor who gave you confidence, or the sibling who always has a juice box ready.

Our "For The Ones Who Raised Us" 50/50 Draw celebrates those who shaped us, while funding the future of diabetes research, care, and treatment in Alberta.

It’s a win-win!You get a chance to win big, and our community gets one step closer to a cure.

🎟️ Enter to celebrate your hero here: https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/for-the-ones-who-raised-us-50/50

Tickets start at only $10 – it’s a small price for a big impact!

05/02/2026

🚨 LAST CHANCE! 🚨 The clock is ticking on Early Bird Draw #3! You have until MIDNIGHT TOMORROW (May 3rd) to get your tickets for a chance to win $5,000 CASH. 💸

By entering now, you’re not just chasing $5K—you’re also staying in the running for our Grand Prize: a stunning, restored 1965 Acadian Beaumont 🏎️💨

Every dollar stays right here in Alberta to support life-changing diabetes research, treatment, and care.

Get Your Tickets Now at https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/adf-2025

🗓️ Cut-off: May 3, 2026
💰 Prize: $5,000 Cash
🎟️ Pricing: 1 for $50 | 3 for $100 (Best Value!)

Join thousands of community organizations - big and small - who raise more funds for their worthy causes with Rafflebox.

05/01/2026

The Alberta Diabetes Foundation (ADF) is seeking two strategic leaders to join our Board of Directors. While we remain dedicated to world-class research, we have expanded our mission to include immediate care and treatment for Albertans.

Who are we looking for?
We are seeking "movers and shakers"—individuals who are active in their communities and ready to open doors. We have a specific need for expertise in:

✅ Fundraising: Helping us secure sponsorships and philanthropic support.
✅ IT & Digital Strategy: Guiding our technological growth and security.
✅ Human Resources: Strengthening our organizational culture and governance.

The Commitment
📍 Term: 2 years (approx. 4–6 hours/month).
📍 Availability: Meetings every two months, plus event advocacy.
📍 Timeline: Interviews begin late May; onboarding in June.

🔗 Full Position Details: https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/careers

If you are a motivated leader with a desire to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and community support, we want to hear from you.

Apply Today Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter to Brandy Burns at [email protected].

04/29/2026

The Heroes in Diabetes Award celebrates more than just individuals living with diabetes; it honours the families who walk alongside them with compassion and tireless support. Today, we’re looking back at the incredible story of past winner, Laurie Kanerva.

Since her daughter’s diagnosis in 2000, Laurie has been the steady presence behind every insulin dose and every late-night low. From measuring carbs for birthday cake to empowering her daughter to manage competitive diving with independence, Laurie ensured her children never missed out on the joys of childhood.

When her son was diagnosed a few years later, Laurie Kanerva began the journey all over again—recognizing his unique needs and providing space and support in equal measure. Throughout it all, Laurie brought a deep sense of calm and resourcefulness, ensuring that diabetes never defined her children’s lives.

What makes her story so powerful is the humility with which she carried this responsibility. Laurie didn’t just manage day-to-day challenges; she instilled a healthy perspective that shaped her children into the capable, confident adults they are today.

🏆 Do You Know a Hero Like Laurie?
We know there are so many "unsung heroes" in our community...parents, siblings, and friends who provide the resilience and love that make a world of difference. Help us recognize them.

🔗 Submit your nomination and learn more about the process at:
https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/awards-criteria-2026

Applications close: May 31, 2026

Award Sponsor 2025:

04/27/2026

This is an alarming statistic, but it is one we are working tirelessly to change 🚨
The primary causes behind diabetes-related amputations are peripheral neuropathy and poor circulation.

⛓️‍💥 Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves, particularly in the feet. This often results in a loss of sensation, meaning a small blister or cut can go unnoticed and untreated.

🩸 Reduced Blood Flow: Diabetes can also affect the vascular system, slowing blood flow to the extremities. Without proper circulation, the body’s ability to heal even minor wounds is significantly compromised, increasing the risk of severe infection and gangrene.

Early intervention and consistent self-care are critical. Here are four ways to protect your limb health:

✅ Conduct Daily Foot Checks: Inspect your feet every day for redness, swelling, blisters, or cuts. Use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet if necessary.

✅ Manage Blood Glucose Levels: Staying within your target range helps prevent further nerve and blood vessel damage.

✅ Prioritize Proper Footwear: Avoid going barefoot, even indoors. Wear well-fitting shoes and moisture-wicking socks to reduce friction and pressure points.

✅ Schedule Regular Professional Exams: Ensure your healthcare provider or a podiatrist performs a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year.

Knowledge is power! If you found this information useful, please share this post with your network or someone who needs it to help us spread vital awareness across Alberta 🔵

Your support saves limbs and lives. Please consider making a donation today to fuel the next breakthrough in diabetes care:
🔗 https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/

🩺 Please consult your physician or a qualified healthcare professional immediately if you notice any abnormalities, sores that won't heal, or changes in sensation in your feet.