Q. Where are you from?
A. I am from Ottawa, ON. I have grown up here for 20 years and still live in the very same house.
Q. What’s your story?
A. I’ve had diabetes for 9 years now. I was on the pump years ago then went to MDI and now trying to go back on the pump! Exhausting! I’m currently finishing my Psychology degree at the University of Ottawa. I am in love with sports (hockey, soccer, rugby, baseball, basketball, volleyball etc. etc. etc.) and anything to do with staying active including outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking and FISHING! My family has been the biggest support of all, they are a wonderful bunch that keep me smiling and going day to day.
Q. What was your insulin regime like when you were first diagnosed with diabetes?
A. At first, I was told ” ‘X’ amount of starch, fruits and vegetables”. This included following strict times for snacks and meals. Now, with MDI, I am taking two doses of Lantus a day with Humalog every time I eat. This is all in hopes of one day being able to go on the Pump!
Q. What are the top 5 songs on your iTunes?
A. John Mayer – Vultures
Lupe Fiasco – Til I Get There
LCD Soundsystem – Daft Punk Is Playing at My House (London Session)
Duck Sauce – Barbara Streisand
Hollerado – Julliette
Q. What is the coolest thing you’ve done as a person with diabetes?
A. I have traveled to Rome, France and the United Kingdom (twice) all being diabetic which have been some of the best experiences of my life. I would have to say my biggest accomplishment to date however, would be my 8 year streak as a counsellor and leader at Camp Banting. Recently I have programmed, planned and implemented the Junior Leadership program which focuses on youth aged 14-15 with type-1 diabetes. We teach the youth hard, outdoor skills such as survival techniques, fire building and orienteering. In 2007, I had the honour of being named Male Counsellor of the year. Camp Banting is my home away from home!
Q. What keeps you ‘in motion’?
A. Currently, I am playing hockey at least 2 times a week (sometimes up to 3 times a week!). In the winter I am able to go to the outdoor rinks, whenever school is willing to let me go. The summer brings much of the same and I am able to keep enjoying hockey at least once a week. I have played lots of rugby in the past and was captain and MVP of my high school team. That same year I was named to the Eastern all-star team, and continued to play club for a U18 city team.
In the summer, I enjoy camping when time permits and I am able to escape. If not, I enjoy fishing at my cottage for hours on end. Not to mention any game of pick-up I can find – baseball, basketball, volleyball or tennis!
Follow Russell on Twitter: @BigrussT
