Skip to main content

Author: Tracy McQuire

Supporting the Whole Health of Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: A New Approach to Diabetes Distress

Written by Tracy McQuire on . Posted in News.

Young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) face daily self-management challenges that go far beyond blood sugar levels. Mental health struggles (including diabetes distress (DD)) are common, yet care systems often fail to address the emotional and psychological realities of living with diabetes. A new pilot study is changing that.

The TECC-T1D3 trial, supported by Diabetes Action Canada and co-designed by young adults with lived experience, is testing a virtual, technology-enabled collaborative care model tailored to the needs of young adults navigating life with T1D and DD.

Here are three key elements of this innovative project:

1. Mental health is diabetes care—especially for young adults

The protocol aims to address a critical gap in care: traditional diabetes services often prioritize glycemic outcomes over emotional well-being. Yet nearly 40% of people with T1D experience diabetes distress, which can impact self-management, mental health, and long-term outcomes. TECC-T1D3 has been co-designed to offer a more holistic model, centering emotional support as part of everyday diabetes care.

2. Co-designed, patient-led solutions are needed

TECC-T1D3 was co-developed with young adults living with T1D, whose insights shaped everything from intervention design, the content, to the recruitment strategy. As a result, the intervention is delivered virtually through a health coach, supported by a virtual care team, and uses everyday technologies like phone calls and text messaging to reduce cognitive burden. Most importantly, TECC-T1D3 has been designed to prioritize trust, flexibility, and connection—values identified by patient partners as essential to success.

3. Scalable and compassionate care is possible

Unlike many mental health interventions that rely on specialized personnel or proprietary technology, TECC-T1D3 has been intentionally designed for scalability. Health coaches are selected based on relational skills rather than clinical credentials, making it possible to scale the model across diverse communities while maintaining personalized, culturally responsive support.

As the trial progresses, findings will inform the next stage of implementation—laying the foundation for broader, patient-informed mental health support in diabetes care across Canada.

Learn More
Read the full TECC-T1D3 protocol, published in Digital Health: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/20552076251365134

Diabetes Action Canada is proud to support this important work and the patient partners whose leadership is transforming how care is delivered.

Patient Partners Lead National Co-Design Sessions to Build New Diabetes Resources

Written by Tracy McQuire on . Posted in News.

Diabetes Action Canada is supporting a series of national virtual co-design sessions this month, led by Patient Partners through the Research-to-Action Fellowship. These sessions bring together people with lived, loved, laboured, or learned experience of diabetes to shape tools that respond to real community needs.

This initiative is grounded in the principles of patient-oriented research and collaborative innovation. Rather than traditional focus groups, these sessions are designed as working sessions where participants co-create alongside Fellowship teams.

Participants are offered an honorarium in recognition of their time and contributions. Each session will last 1.5 hours and includes light preparation and follow-up.

Session Topics Include:

  • What People with Diabetes Wish Nurses Knew — Addressing stigma and bias in care
  • Cell Therapy 101 — Demystifying stem cell treatment in type 1 diabetes
  • Hormones & Diabetes — Navigating puberty, pregnancy, and menopause
  • AID 101 — Exploring automated insulin delivery tools and lived experience
  • Right Diagnosis Toolkit — Responding to misdiagnosis in Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities

Open to people in Canada aged 16+, these sessions are part of a broader effort to ensure that new resources reflect the priorities and realities of the communities they are meant to serve.

For more information, visit: https://lnkd.in/edZhZ5pE

When Research Saves Sight and Dollars: The ROI of Patient Partnership in Health Policy

Written by Tracy McQuire on . Posted in News.

At this year’s CAHSPR conference in Ottawa, Diabetes Action Canada member Aleksandra Stanimirovic, also part of the UHN Program for Health System and Technology Evaluation (PHSTE), presented on behalf of her team members Troy Francis, Jim Bowen, and Valeria Rac; collaborators from South Riverdale Community Health Centre (Rebecca Merritt and Ann Phillips); and Judy Hung from Toronto Western Hospital. Together, they made a strong case for how patient-partnered research can demonstrate that population-based diabetic retinopathy screening, with treatment access for underserved populations, delivers exceptional return on investment for individuals, communities, and the health system.

Co-developed with Patient Partners Debbie and Malcolm Sissmore and Ryan Hooey, the study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of Ontario’s tele-retina screening program for diabetic retinopathy, focusing on structurally underserved populations. Three care models were compared, and population-based screening emerged as the most cost-effective.

The numbers tell a powerful story:

  • $27 saved for every $1 invested when regular screening is paired with low-cost therapy
  • $7.66 saved for every $1 invested when paired with high-cost therapy
  • Improved early detection and prevention of avoidable vision loss
  • Reduced long-term healthcare costs tied to advanced eye disease and disability

But the real ROI goes beyond economics.

Because the study was shaped by individuals with lived experience, the research addressed real-world barriers to access and delivery. Patient Partner insights directly informed the modeling assumptions—ensuring relevance, legitimacy, and impact.

Now, these findings are informing active conversations with health system leaders about scaling diabetic retinopathy screening province-wide. This is patient-oriented research influencing real policy—and driving smarter, more equitable investment.

And this work doesn’t stop at the abstract. Stay tuned for the upcoming peer-reviewed publication, and continued leadership from Diabetes Action Canada in advancing research that saves sight, limbs —and public dollars.

From Ideas to Action: DAC’s Network Session Showcases Community-Driven Solutions

Written by Tracy McQuire on . Posted in News.

On May 27, 2025, Diabetes Action Canada hosted another Network Action Session, bringing together a diverse community of researchers, Patient Partners, trainees, and community leaders committed to advancing diabetes care and patient-driven research.

The event featured a research talk from Dr. Holly Witteman, who introduced CommuniT1D / CommunauDT1, an innovative, community-led peer-support platform specifically designed for people living with type 1 diabetes. This initiative responds directly to a long-standing request from DAC’s Patient Partners for accessible, community-focused support.

For those who missed it, the full session recording is now available online here.

Research to Action Fellowship: Empowering Patient-Led Innovation

The session also highlighted DAC’s Research to Action Fellowship, which empowers Patient Partners to lead transformative projects that bridge research and community action. The Fellowship’s resource library, featuring impactful projects from its inaugural cohort, has already seen over 10,000 downloads across more than 30 countries.

The current cohort of fellows is actively addressing critical issues such as:

  • Cell Therapy 101: Making stem cell treatments understandable and accessible.
  • Women’s Health & Diabetes: Addressing gender-based disparities in diabetes care.
  • Automated Insulin Delivery 101: Simplifying complex insulin delivery systems.
  • Uncovering Misdiagnosis: Tackling diagnostic biases impacting Black and Brown communities.
  • Diabetes Stigma: Working to reduce stigma in clinical and community environments.

Explore these valuable resources in full here.

Save the Date

Stay tuned for our next DAC Network Action Session coming in September 2025—exact date and time to be announced soon.

To stay connected, follow Diabetes Action Canada on LinkedIn or visit our website at www.diabetesaction.ca.

Have ideas for future sessions? We welcome your input and encourage you to reach out anytime.

Creating Change Through Conversation: Reflections from Our Indigenous-Led Anti-Racism Training

Written by Tracy McQuire on . Posted in Patient Voices Blog.

By Sasha Delorme, Chair of the Indigenous Patient Circle, Diabetes Action Canada

What am I doing to create change in this world—for my children, and for future generations? I’m working to make space for honest, open conversations about racism. And not just conversations—transformative ones.

Earlier this spring, the Indigenous Patient Circle (IPC) hosted its second anti-racism training workshop in Magog, Quebec. What made it particularly powerful was that the entire day was planned and facilitated by patient partners.

A small group of eight of us boarded a shuttle at 7:30 a.m., making the 90-minute drive to a quiet ski resort in Magog. By 9:00, we were setting up for a full day of learning and dialogue with research trainees and health system professionals.

Before the day officially began, I had the honour of meeting Elder Gregoire Canapé, who welcomed me with warmth and kindness—taking my hand and gently pressing his cheek to mine, first on the left, then on the right. In keeping with protocol, I offered him tobacco in gratitude for the teachings and prayers he would share with us that day. (As a reminder: it’s customary to offer tobacco when requesting prayers, teachings, or guidance from an Indigenous Elder.)

We opened the workshop, as always, in circle. The circle symbolizes unity and equality, and it creates a safe space for everyone to share their experiences, thoughts, and questions freely.

Elder Gregoire began by smudging the room and sharing stories, teachings, and a prayer and song in his language. His presence filled the space with calm and joy—his teachings were met with smiles and quiet reflection. And since he spoke French fluently, one of our team members stepped in with some spontaneous translation—bringing both clarity and a few moments of laughter.

Later, we welcomed Elder Barb Nepinak to the circle. She shared teachings on the importance of water, the significance of tobacco, and demonstrated how to make a tobacco tie—reminding us of the ceremonial elements that ground our work in community, respect, and tradition.

We also heard from guest speakers: an anti-Indigenous racism facilitator from the First Nations Health and Social Services of Manitoba (FNHSSM), and the Indigenous Initiatives Manager from the CKD Network. They spoke about Indigenous cultural safety and the resources their organizations are creating to better support care and research in Indigenous contexts.

Our facilitators—each of them Indigenous patient partners—shared their lived experiences of racism in healthcare. These stories were powerful and at times difficult to hear. In hindsight, we realized that some content could have benefited from a trigger warning, and we’ll be more mindful of that in future sessions.

At the end of the workshop, we asked the participants—many of whom were research trainees—what they had learned. Their reflections were raw and honest. Several admitted they had never been taught the true history of colonization or how it continues to shape the health of Indigenous Peoples today.

That moment reminded me why these workshops matter. They don’t just teach cultural practices—they invite a reckoning with history. They build bridges between lived experience and structural change. They are, in every way, a step toward reconciliation.

If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of our anti-racism workshops, I encourage you to come with an open heart. The journey toward change begins with listening—and continues with action.

Walking Together in a Good Way: Advancing Indigenous Diabetes Wellness through Partnership

Written by Tracy McQuire on . Posted in News.

Diabetes Action Canada (DAC) is honoured to deepen its relationship with the Indigenous Diabetes Health Circle (IDHC), an Indigenous-governed, culture-based organization dedicated to restoring wellness and reducing the impact of diabetes among Indigenous Peoples across Ontario.

Together, we have walked a shared path for many years—collaborating on initiatives such as diabetic retinopathy screening and lower limb preservation, which have expanded access to care while centring Indigenous voices, knowledge, and priorities. This renewed commitment builds on that foundation, guided by shared values and a vision for holistic, community-led wellness.

“This agreement reflects our commitment to walking together in a good way,” says Tracy McQuire, Executive Director of Diabetes Action Canada. “We are grateful for IDHC’s leadership and teachings, and we look forward to continuing this journey of respect, responsibility, and collective action.”

Rooted in Indigenous cultural principles, this partnership emphasizes the importance of connection—between people, lands, waters, knowledge, and spirit. It honours the teachings of wholistic wellness, and upholds core values such as reciprocity, representation, and relevance. Together, we will partners to continue to support Indigenous-led programs, advance culturally grounded education, and uphold Indigenous data sovereignty and self-determination in all aspects of the work.

“This is a living relationship,” says Roslynn Baird. “It grows with each season, guided by the wisdom of our ancestors and the needs of our communities today. Through this partnership, we are creating safe spaces for healing, learning, and lasting change.”

Each year, DAC and IDHC will reflect on the work completed, offer gratitude, and set intentions for the future. This cycle ensures the relationship remains rooted in respect, and responsive to the communities we serve.

This renewed partnership is a meaningful step forward in our shared journey—a commitment to honouring Indigenous knowledge, amplifying Indigenous leadership, and working together toward diabetes wellness and healing for generations to come.

To learn more about the Indigenous Diabetes Health Circle, visit https://idhc.life/

Highlights from Our First DAC Network Action Session

Written by Tracy McQuire on . Posted in News.

The inaugural DAC Network Action Session brought together a diverse group of researchers, patient partners, and community members, to see our Network in action! Thank you to everyone who joined us.  

Research on Diabetes Remission: Insights from Dr. Diana Sherifali

A special thank you to Dr. Diana Sherifali for her insightful presentation on diabetes remission and its growing potential in clinical care. As a leading expert in the area, Dr. Sherifali’s research focuses on how individuals with type 2 diabetes can achieve remission through lifestyle interventions, weight management, and early therapeutic strategies.

During the session, Dr. Sherifali highlighted:
✔️ The latest research on sustained diabetes remission and what it means for long-term health outcomes.
✔️ The key factors influencing remission, including early intervention, dietary strategies, and medication de-escalation.
✔️ The importance of patient engagement and shared decision-making in developing sustainable remission plans.

Her work continues to drive meaningful progress, offering evidence-based pathways to remission, emphasizing the role of nutrition, physical activity, and structured weight-loss programs.

 📺 Watch the Session

Missed the live session? You can watch the full recording here and catch up on the discussions and key takeaways.

Key Resources to Support Your Work

The session also highlighted three key DAC resources designed to advance patient-oriented research in diabetes

🔹 Research to Action Fellowship Resource Library
Discover knowledge products created by Patient Partner Fellows, including advocacy tools, educational resources, and real-world patient-led projects driving meaningful change.

🔹 DAC KMAP Tool Webinar
Learn how the Knowledge Mobilization Action Planning (KMAP) Tool can help you integrate research into practice and strengthen grant applications. Watch the webinar to learn how it works Watch the webinar to explore its potential.

🔹 Diabetes Research Connect
Find out how Canada’s largest primary care dataset is fueling peer-reviewed research and improving diabetes care. Learn how to access and use this valuable data for your work.

Join the Conversation: The Diabetes Community Hub

Built by and for people with diabetes, the Diabetes Community Hub is a patient-led initiative designed to connect individuals with peer groups, support networks, and resources worldwide. We’ll explore its impact and future plans at our next DAC Network Action Session—but in the meantime, visit the Hub and see how it’s making a difference!

📅 Save the Date:

Mark your calendar for our next DAC Network Action Session on Thursday, May 29, 2025 (Time TBD). Stay connected with the DAC team on LinkedIn and explore our website for more updates, resources, and opportunities to get involved.

We Want to Hear from You!

Have ideas for future sessions? Let us know—we’d love to collaborate and continue driving impactful discussions together.

  • 1
  • 2