Paige Orser, an 18-year-old student from Estevan, captured the National Young Volunteer of the Year Award from the Canadian Diabetes Association during a gala ceremony in Toronto during the association's annual general meeting.
The prestigious award honours young volunteers up to the age of 29, who have dedicated time and contributed significantly to supporting people with diabetes.
"I felt really surprised. I hadn't expected it, and I feel honoured to receive it," said Orser who also volunteers at the Estevan Humane Society and has plans of some day becoming a veterinarian technician, beginning with classes next fall.
Paige was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes nine years ago and decided to get involved with the Canadian Diabetes Association to learn more about her diagnosis. She began by being actively involved with the Youth-In-Action program, providing mentorship and support at the Association's Family D-Camps program in Saskatchewan. Most recently she became a member of the provincial advocacy committee since she is committed to giving the younger generation a voice, and she speaks publicly on behalf of the CDA.
"I especially enjoy being involved in the advocacy committee," she said.
"Paige always gives 150 per cent, and I know I can always rely on her for a helping hand," said Tristan Banyay, Leadership Development Program instructor, who nominated Orser for the award.
"Teamwork is critical in the fight against diabetes. The awards presented demonstrate a true dedication to teamwork from individuals across the nation who are making a significant difference in the lives of the more than nine million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes," said Rick Blickstead, president and CEO of the CDA. "The diversity of expertise of these individuals adds enormously to the strength of CDA as we hope to empower people living with diabetes. We are immensely grateful to these individuals and are stronger together in accomplishing our missions with their support."
It is estimated there are about 90,000 people in Saskatchewan who are living with diabetes, and it is estimated that within the next seven years, nearly 10 per cent of the population will contract it. Including those with prediabetes conditions that could rise to about 34 per cent by 2020, said the CDA. The costs associated with treating diabetes conditions will increase to more than $530 million by 2020.
