Marking the anniversary of the Flame of Hope at the birthplace of insulin

A ceremony was held at Banting House to mark the anniversary of the Flame of Hope in the fight against diabetes. CTV’s Lauren Stallone was there.

Advocates gathered outside London’s Banting House National Historic Site, the birthplace of insulin, on Monday morning to mark the 36th anniversary of the Flame of Hope.

“July 7, 1989, the Queen Mother was here to light the Flame of Hope to try to hopefully someday extinguish this so we can say we have a cure for diabetes,” said Glenn Thibeault with Diabetes Canada.

The Flame of Hope is a symbol of unity and inspiration. It spreads a powerful message of inclusion and perseverance across the globe.

“There’s 4.1 million people in this country that live with diabetes and there’s even more numbers in that when you look at who lives with prediabetes,” said Thibeault

Sonia Sidhu, MP for Brampton South, was recognized for her advocacy work and quest to cure diabetes.

“I’m from Brampton, and in Brampton every six or seven people are impacted by diabetes or prediabetes,” said Sidhu. “This is why I want to help my community.”

Sidhu proposed a bill that was passed through parliament, improving access to diabetes care across the country.

“We’ve got things like Pharmacare and device funds and research,” said Thibeault. “That’s all happening thanks to this framework, so we thought today would be a good day to acknowledge her work on the day we are celebrating the anniversary.”

Hundreds of bricks are placed around Banting House to commemorate individuals and events related to diabetes.

The newest addition is a brick celebrating Sidhu and her dedication to finding a cure.

“If we find a cure, everyone can live a happy life, a healthy life,” said Sidhu.