Jewels has been living with type 1 diabetes for over seven years. When he was first diagnosed the biggest challenge for him was adjusting to life with diabetes at school. “It was tough to control my blood sugar and give insulin,” Jewels says. “I was young, terrified of needles, and wanting to fit in with my peers.”

A year after diagnosis, Jewels began using Dexcom’s CGM. “Dexcom CGM has been so helpful to me in supporting my diabetes management for six years by giving me 24/7 glucose monitoring,” Jewels says. “It allows me to live life much more freely and comfortably with school, sports, and traveling—giving me a sense of independence.”

In the fall of 2023, while at a diabetes event in Niagara, Jewels first connected with I Challenge Diabetes (ICD). Despite only being involved with ICD for a year, he has already been to three events, which have had a lasting impact. “I used to be far too shy to raise my hand or voice my thoughts,” Jewels explains, “but after engaging withand taking on different challenges with ICD, I’m able to participate more, share my perspective, and take on new roles in a professional and social environment.” His favourite events are ICD’s Leadership Retreats. “The best part of attending a Leadership Retreat is learning from different perspectives,” Jewels says.

“Connecting with others and seeing what works best for them or what they would do is a game changer in learning, thinking, and gaining problem-solving skills.”

By finding his voice, Jewels is establishing his place in the diabetes community. “Being a member of the diabetes community means being aware of our struggles while uplifting positive voices and experiences,” Jewels says. “Being involved is important to me because it allows me to learn more about myself and my condition and find things that bring me joy.”

Looking to the future, Jewels is motivated to utilize the lessons learned from ICD’s programs to experience all that the world has to offer. “I want to explore life’s beauty and share it with as many people as possible whether that is beautiful landscapes, nature, wildlife, or seeing others laugh,” states Jewels. “Wanting to experience these motivates me to become my best self, connect with others, and create beautiful moments.”

To learn more about our upcoming retreats visit: https://ichallengediabetes.org/programs/retreats/

_{We are grateful to Dexcom Canada for their support of our Leadership Retreats.}