Description
Laurie is excited to join Diabetes Action Canada as the Francophone Engagement Coordinator, bringing a strong background in patient advocacy, research, and community engagement. Drawing from her own lived experience with type 1 diabetes, she is passionate about fostering inclusivity and addressing the unique challenges faced by Francophone populations within the diabetes community. Laurie holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Montreal.
Prior to joining DAC, Laurie played an active role in numerous initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals living with type 1 diabetes. Her contributions span a range of areas, including awareness campaigns, knowledge translation initiatives, social media collaborations, research on peer support, and youth engagement in diabetes care. Notably, Laurie contributed as a Peer Leader and Patient Partner in the research study Supporting and Incentivizing Peer Leaders for an Internet-Based Private Peer Community for Youths with Type 1 Diabetes, which led to her participation in the 2024 Diabetes Canada Conference. She also continues to be involved in patient engagement and knowledge translation through her role as a Patient Partner in the BETTER Project.
Passionate about driving change, Laurie’s advocacy work has focused on reducing stigma and fostering peer support within the diabetes community. Her efforts have earned national recognition, including the JDRF National Young Volunteer of the Year Award in 2017 and the Youth Personality Award at the Gala des Masson in 2018.
