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Ontario Slipstream 2023
September 29, 2023 @ 4:00 pm - October 1, 2023 @ 1:00 pm EDT
$425
We're excited to reconnect as we bring in-person Slipstreams back to life.
Experiential Education
No classrooms. The best way to learn is in the real world.
Relax & Recharge
It's an awesome weekend in the woods around a campfire!
Lasting Connections
Attendees go on to make lifelong friendships with other T1s.
WHAT: Ontario Slipstream 2023
WHERE: Camp Couchiching, Orillia, Ontario
WHEN: September 29–October 1, 2023
WHO: Adults (18+) with Type 1 diabetes
PRICE: $425 CAD
CANCELLATION POLICY: We offer a full refund (minus an administrative fee) up until 30 days before the event start date. Refunds cannot be issued within 30 days of the event start date due to arrangements with our host venues. To request a refund, please email info@connectedinmotion.ca.
Connected in Motion invites you to join us for a weekend of community, connection and continuing education, set against a backdrop of fresh air and adventure! Only 90 minutes north of Toronto, Camp Couchiching offers an exclusive campsite, complete with high ropes, boating, 3-season heated cabins and will be home to Ontario Slipstream 2023.
What is a Slipstream?
A Slipstream weekend is an active, social and educational weekend for adults living with Type 1 diabetes. But that explanation sounds so formal… it’s really a weekend jam-packed with outdoor adventure, engaging workshops, great food and incredible people. It’s a chance to connect (or reconnect) with like-minded Type 1s, get out and try something new, and learn from each others’ experiences. Let’s celebrate our accomplishments and focus on the positive aspects of what we CAN do with Type 1 diabetes.
All of the Important Information You Need
Camp Couchiching
3990 Longford Mills Rd
Longford Mills, ON L0K 1L0
*Make sure NOT to use Camp Couchiching’s winter address (27 Peter Street North).
Driving
From Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) – 90 minutes / 130km
From Ottawa – 4.5 hours / 370km
From North Bay – 2 hours / 260km
Airport
Camp Couchiching is located approximately 90 minutes / 130 km from Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
Carpool
Don’t forget to check out our Carpooling Tool – Join a car or offer a ride, here.
When attending a Slipstream, you can expect to stay in shared, bunk-style accommodations with electricity for all of your diabetes charging needs. When CIM is searching for venues, we look for options that are comfortable for adults, including easy access to bathrooms and showers (in the cabins, whenever possible), climate-controlled spaces, and reasonably sized beds.
Slipstreams take place in outdoor camps across North America. There are plenty of opportunities to get active and have fun regardless of what Mother Nature throws at us. We always plan for weather to be unpredictable – hot, cold, wet, or dry. We can’t control the weather, but we can control how we dress. Bring lots of comfy layers, as well as athletic, fast-drying, and wicking clothing.
Please Note: It can be cold in Ontario in late September. BRING LAYERS and an extra blanket!
Camp Clothes
- Underwear of choice
- 2 pairs of wool socks
- 1 quick-dry t-shirt
- 2 long sleeve shirts
- 1 pair of pants
- Long-johns (top and bottom layers)
- Comfy clothes for lounging – jeans, hoodies, sweats, etc.
- Rain gear (jacket and pants)
- Pyjamas
- 1 fleece or hoodie
- 1 insulated jacket
- Brimmed hat, toque, and mitts
- Bathing suit and towel
Footwear
- Slippers/sandals (for indoor use)
- Running shoes and/or trail/hiking shoes (for outdoor use)
Toiletries
- Shampoo/conditioner/soap/body wash
- Brush/comb
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal items
Camping Equipment
- Sleeping bag, bedding and pillow
- Extra blanket layers
- Single bed fitted sheet (optional)
Diabetes Supplies and Meds
- Any meds you need, labeled
- Insulin and supplies (enough to last a week) – be sure to pack extra pump sites and reservoirs, pump batteries/charger, glucose meter(s), syringes, pen camps, etc.
- Your favourite low supplies
- Emergency hypo kit (if you have one)
Other
- Camera
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- 1L water bottle
- Small backpack/fanny pack
Optional
- Musical instruments
- Yoga mat
- Season specific sporting equipment (tennis racquet, fishing rod, frisbee, etc.)
- Cards or your favourite board game (you never know!)
Schedule at a Glance
Want to download a PDF version of the schedule? Click here.
FRIDAY
4PM – Check-in
6PM – Dinner
7:30PM – Kick-off, Icebreakers, & Campfire
SATURDAY
7AM – Early Morning Activities
8AM – Breakfast
9AM / 10:30AM – Morning Sessions & Activities
12PM – Lunch
1:30PM / 3PM – Afternoon Sessions & Activities
4:30PM – Freetime
6PM – Dinner
7:30PM – Hot Topics
8:30PM – Campfire & Social
SUNDAY
7AM – Early Morning Activities
8AM – Breakfast
9:15AM – Morning Sessions & Activities
10:45AM – Debrief & Closing Activities
12PM – Lunch
1PM – Head Out!
Detailed Schedule
FRIDAY
4PM – Arrival, Registration, Move-in, Camp Tours, Vendor Tables
6PM – Dinner
7:30PM –
Campfire
Head on over to the campfire to get to know your new friends!
Campfire
Head on over to the campfire to get to know your new friends!
SATURDAY
7AM –
Coffee by the Lake
Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing morning by the lake with a cup of coffee in hand. Participants can savor their morning coffee while taking in the stunning views and natural surroundings. This activity provides a great way to start the day off on a tranquil note, allowing for a moment of quiet contemplation or simply enjoying the company of others. With the gentle sound of the water and the warmth of the sun, a morning coffee by the lake is the perfect way to kickstart your day at camp.
Polar Bear Dip
Take the plunge and join us for a polar bear dip, a thrilling and invigorating activity that's not for the faint of heart! Participants will jump into the chilly waters of the lake, an experience that's sure to get your heart pumping and leave you feeling energized. With the support of fellow campers and the guidance of experienced instructors, the polar bear dip is a safe and memorable way to push your limits and step outside of your comfort zone.
Morning Yoga with Kearah Cloer
Awaken your senses and greet the day with our Morning Yoga session. Designed to gently rouse the body and mind, this class combines rejuvenating stretches with breathwork, ensuring you start the day with clarity, vitality, and a sense of peace. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned practitioners, this session aims to harmonize your morning energy and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
8AM – Breakfast
9AM –
Sleep and T1D
Sleep is foundational to health, including the metabolic health of people with T1D. Yet, diabetes poses vulnerability to sleep issues and carries unique challenges to optimal sleep. Learn about the relationship between sleep and diabetes and trouble-shoot some common and diabetes-specific sleep challenges!
Mental Health and Type 1
A workshop all about the side of type one your health care team glosses over.
Embrace the Wild: Managing Diabetes Outdoors
This session invites adventurers of all levels to explore practical tips and strategies for successfully navigating diabetes while embracing the great outdoors. Journey through interactive stations filled with hands-on techniques, expert insights, and inspiring stories, empowering you to confidently manage your diabetes while immersing yourself in thrilling adventures.
Low Ropes Course
Our low ropes course is a fun and challenging activity that promotes teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Participants will navigate through a series of obstacles close to the ground, using ropes, cables, and platforms. This course is designed to be accessible to participants of all ages and skill levels, making it a great activity for everyone. Under the guidance of our experienced instructors, you'll learn how to work together to overcome obstacles and complete the course. Come join us for a fun-filled day of low ropes!
Archery
Archery is a popular outdoor activity that challenges both physical and mental abilities. Participants are trained in safety and proper techniques before being provided with a bow and arrows to shoot at a target. The objective is to hit the center of the target by adjusting aim, draw, and release techniques. Archery is a great way to improve focus, coordination, and patience while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Fall Colours Photo Walk
Take a leisurely walk through the scenic trails, surrounded by fall foliage. This activity is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while getting some light exercise.
Canoe
Join us at the waterfront for a morning of canoeing. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, participants of all skill levels are welcome. Equipped with paddles and life jackets, you'll venture out onto the water to explore the natural beauty of lakes and rivers. Canoeing provides a great workout for the upper body and offer a unique way to enjoy the stunning scenery. Don't miss out on this exciting and popular activity at camp!
10:30AM –
Diabetes in the Light of Wisdom
How is it that something so painful could be so profoundly helpful for living a deeply fulfilling life? It comes down to one word: transformation. Using a meditative practice and life perspective, we can turn the slings and arrows of life with Diabetes into great (albeit at times uncomfortable) teachers for how to live a life of meaning, a life transformed. This workshop will cover some of the ancient foundations of meditative practice and how they speak directly to our lives with Diabetes, as well as give each participant a taste of a meditative mind and perspective, and resources to continue to develop their practice further.
Women, T1D, and the Roller Coaster of Hormones
Delve into the often-overlooked connection between T1D and hormones. Discover the power of sharing experiences as we navigate this lesser-researched territory, troubleshooting challenges, and highlighting key strategies.
Plant Protein Made Easy
Hands on cooking class will focus on how to use plant protein to balance daily meal planning.
Nature Journaling
Unwind and discover the intricacies of nature firsthand. No expertise as an artist or writer is required; all you need is a genuine eagerness to stroll, pause, observe, and delve into the wonders that surround you.
Forest High Ropes
High ropes activities at camp are exhilarating and involve navigating obstacles suspended high off the ground. Participants are given a safety briefing, fitted with harnesses, and guided by instructors through a course that includes rope bridges, tightropes, zip lines, and cargo nets surrounded by the beautiful forest scenery. These activities are great for challenging oneself, building confidence, and developing teamwork and communication skills.
Axe & Stone Throwing
Channel your inner lumberjack and test your aim with axe throwing and stone target practice. This activity is great for those who want to improve their hand-eye coordination and have some fun with friends.
Kayak
Join us at the waterfront for a morning or afternoon of kayaking. Participants are equipped with paddles and life jackets before venturing out onto the water. Kayaking offers a unique way to explore the natural beauty of lakes and rivers, and provide a great workout for the upper body. With proper training and safety precautions, canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyed by participants of all skill levels, making it a popular and exciting activity for campers.
12PM – Lunch
1:15PM – 15 Min Tech Update by Tandem Diabetes Care
1:30PM –
Maximizing AID: Advanced Insights for Experienced Users
Join our panel of experts and experienced Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) users as we dive deep into the power of AID and how it can help you get back to doing the things you love. Discover advanced techniques, best practices, and personalized strategies to optimize your AID experience. From improving sleep to engaging in exercise, or taking up something new, learn how AID can help get back control of your health and wellbeing. Get practical, up-to-date solutions to common challenges and gain valuable insights from our esteemed panel. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more and unlock the full potential of AID. This session will be discussion format, with lots of opportunity to share your struggles and successes.
Habits and Behaviour Change
How can we approach behaviour change today, in the context of a chronic condition? How do we prioritize, establish and maintain habits to support our health as it relates to diabetes management? Join us as we discuss the answers to these and other important questions!
Finding Community
A lot can be learned through 50 years with Type 1 diabetes. Join us for a journey through life with diabetes, then and now. Hear the top lessons learned and share your own takeaways.
The Craft Shop is Open
Were you a Craft Shop Kid at camp? Did you miss out on camp but have an interest in art? Are you eager to craft a bracelet, paint a rock, or even make a sand candle? If so, we invite you to visit our camp craft shop, where you can unleash your creativity, engage in delightful conversations, and enjoy moments of relaxation.
Climbing Tower
Climb to new heights and challenge yourself on the climbing wall, with guidance from experienced climbing instructors. This activity is perfect for those seeking a physical and mental challenge in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Archery
Archery is a popular outdoor activity that challenges both physical and mental abilities. Participants are trained in safety and proper techniques before being provided with a bow and arrows to shoot at a target. The objective is to hit the center of the target by adjusting aim, draw, and release techniques. Archery is a great way to improve focus, coordination, and patience while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Fall Colours Photo Walk
Take a leisurely walk through the scenic trails, surrounded by fall foliage. This activity is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while getting some light exercise.
3PM –
Diabetes Q&A
Back by popular demand, join us for this interactive session and get your diabetes questions answered. Submit your question ahead of time and join us for answers! Happy to join you on this one if that would be fun?
Great Cookie Bake-Off
Engage in a spirited team competition as you create mouthwatering cookies from scratch using a secret combination of ingredients, all while learning the science behind baking. Unleash your creativity, indulge in delicious treats, and savor the taste of victory in this exciting session - Just don't forget your carb counts!
Afternoon Yoga
Dive deep into the world of yoga in this immersive session. Tailored to accommodate yogis of all levels, this class balances strength-building postures with calming relaxation techniques. Whether you're looking to enhance flexibility, foster mental tranquility, or simply indulge in a moment of self-care, this session provides the perfect sanctuary for body and mind rejuvenation.
High Ropes
High ropes activities at camp are exhilarating and involve navigating obstacles suspended high off the ground. Participants are given a safety briefing, fitted with harnesses, and guided by instructors through a course that includes rope bridges, tightropes, zip lines, and cargo nets. These activities are great for challenging oneself, building confidence, and developing teamwork and communication skills.
Axe & Stone Throwing
Channel your inner lumberjack and test your aim with axe throwing and stone target practice. This activity is great for those who want to improve their hand-eye coordination and have some fun with friends.
SUP
Experience the beauty of the water in a whole new way with stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP! Participants will stand on a long board and paddle across calm waters, enjoying the scenery and the peacefulness of the activity. This low-impact exercise offers a great full-body workout while also allowing for a meditative and relaxing experience. Under the guidance of our trained instructors, you'll learn proper techniques and safety measures, making it a fun and accessible activity for all skill levels. Come join us at the waterfront for an unforgettable SUP adventure!
GeoCaching using GPS
Embark on an exhilarating geocaching adventure that unlocks the hidden wonders of the great outdoors. Armed with GPS devices or smartphones, eager campers become modern-day explorers, navigating through rugged trails and lush landscapes to discover carefully concealed treasures known as geocaches. As you decode coordinates and decipher clues, you'll unravel the mysteries of nature, testing your observation skills and teamwork.
4:30PM – Freetime
6PM – Dinner
7:30PM –
Hot Topics
A Slipstream Classic - Hot Topics! This session will give you the chance to share your expertise, tips, tricks, and stories as well as learn from others. Topics of conversation may include diabetes and finances, nutrition, travel, adventure, exercise, parenting, being diagnosed as an adult, complications, communicating with loved ones, etc.
Campfire and Evening Social
Gather 'round the campfire for a social evening of fun and relaxation! Participants will enjoy the warmth and ambiance of the campfire while socializing with friends and fellow campers. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind after a busy day of activities and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Bring your guitar or other musical instruments and join in on a sing-along or simply enjoy the company of others. And who knows... we may even break out some s'mores!
SUNDAY
7AM –
Coffee by the Lake
Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing morning by the lake with a cup of coffee in hand. Participants can savor their morning coffee while taking in the stunning views and natural surroundings. This activity provides a great way to start the day off on a tranquil note, allowing for a moment of quiet contemplation or simply enjoying the company of others. With the gentle sound of the water and the warmth of the sun, a morning coffee by the lake is the perfect way to kickstart your day at camp.
Take the plunge and join us for a polar bear dip, a thrilling and invigorating activity that's not for the faint of heart! Participants will jump into the chilly waters of the lake, an experience that's sure to get your heart pumping and leave you feeling energized. With the support of fellow campers and the guidance of experienced instructors, the polar bear dip is a safe and memorable way to push your limits and step outside of your comfort zone.
Morning Paddle
Join us at the waterfront for a morning paddle. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, participants of all skill levels are welcome. Equipped with life jackets, you'll venture out onto the water to explore the natural beauty of lakes and rivers. Paddling provides a great workout for the upper body and offer a unique way to enjoy the stunning scenery.
8AM – Breakfast
9:15AM –
WTF? The mental health impacts of diagnosis in adulthood
This therapeutic group discussion will focus on the unique mental health impacts of being diagnosed with T1D in adulthood.
Communities of Care
Communities of care are social spaces where people sharing a common identity can interact and support each other. Connected in Motion and Slipstreams are communities of care based on our shared experiences, hardships, and joys of living with T1D. A key component to a community of care is inclusion and celebrations of how we are different while connecting through how we are the same. This session will tackle barriers and road-bumps in creating and maintaining communities of care by addressing our unconscious biases, reflecting on our actions when interacting with others, and building our skills in inclusive interactions. The goal of the workshop is to investigate how we can improve ourselves and our community to ensure everyone with T1D is welcome, supported, and cared for.
Towards a Cure
This session will highlight the latest and greatest that is happening in Type 1 diabetes research. We will discuss promising new treatments and cutting-edge technology that are paving the way for a potential cure, by looking at ongoing clinical trials, emerging therapies, and futuristic benchtop research. But don't worry, there won't be any talk of cinnamon! Let's dive in and accelerate our knowledge and understanding of Type 1 diabetes research together.
Nature Art
Engage with the outdoors through paint in our Nature Art session. Using simple techniques, we'll translate the natural world onto canvas, capturing landscapes, flora, and fauna.
High Ropes
High ropes activities at camp are exhilarating and involve navigating obstacles suspended high off the ground. Participants are given a safety briefing, fitted with harnesses, and guided by instructors through a course that includes rope bridges, tightropes, zip lines, and cargo nets. These activities are great for challenging oneself, building confidence, and developing teamwork and communication skills.
Axe & Stone Throwing
Channel your inner lumberjack and test your aim with axe throwing and stone target practice. This activity is great for those who want to improve their hand-eye coordination and have some fun with friends.
Canoe
Join us at the waterfront for a morning of canoeing. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, participants of all skill levels are welcome. Equipped with paddles and life jackets, you'll venture out onto the water to explore the natural beauty of lakes and rivers. Canoeing provides a great workout for the upper body and offer a unique way to enjoy the stunning scenery. Don't miss out on this exciting and popular activity at camp!
10:45AM – Debrief & Closing Activities
12PM – Lunch
1PM – Head Out!
Slipstream Team
Slipstream Staff
Amy Burrows
Co-lead + Panelist
Amy has had type one diabetes for 34 years. Hailing from Beaverton ON, Amy enjoys spending her time outdoors canoe tripping and hiking with her friends, family, partner Jeremy and her dogs. She spends her days working in dentistry in Uxbridge.
Julie De Vos
Co-lead
Julie has spent much of her life volunteering and working in the T1D community. These passions led her to a degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences and a career path in the diabetes industry, focused on building programs and communities for not-for-profit diabetes organizations. Today, Julie is a Registered Kinesiologist, Certified Diabetes Educator, and Health Coach. She is passionate about living life to its fullest and helping those in the diabetes community thrive.
Sarah Gaughan
CIM Staff + Panelist
Sarah has always had a love for the outdoors and has worked as an Ontario Junior Ranger, a canoe trip guide, and outdoor educator. Diagnosed with type one diabetes in 2017, she considers herself extremely lucky to have crossed paths with Connected in Motion soon after, and has been involved with CIM ever since. Sarah completed a BSc in marine biology in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and hopes to attend veterinary school in the future. In her free time Sarah enjoys hiking, camping, canoeing, snowboarding, birding, and planning dream trips!
Slipstream Speakers, Panelists and Facilitators
Amanda Coschi
Speaker
Amanda is a 2017 Connected in Motion Adventure team alumni having hiked the North Coast Trail with an amazing group! She works as a Registered Nurse and Certified Diabetes Educator with Tandem Diabetes Care where she loves helping individuals use technology to their advantage to get outside and explore. In her free time she can either be found backcountry camping or fostering dogs.
Becky Marval
Speaker
Becky Marval has been living with T1D since she was 9 years old. An occupational therapist, health team lead and private diabetes educator, she jumps at any opportunity to engage with folks in the diabetes community... especially through Connected in Motion!
Caroline Lock
Speaker
Caroline is a Registered Social Worker working in private practice as a therapist, providing online virtual therapy in Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia. She was diagnosed with type one in 2021, and now specialises in providing mental health support to others living with diabetes. Caroline is also a counsellor with the Family Care Team at one of Ontario’s largest and longest-standing addiction treatment providers, supporting family members, children, and loved ones who have been impacted by someone else’s addiction. Her therapeutic practice is goal-oriented, and grounded in an anti-oppressive, strengths-based approach.
Charles J. Woodford
Speaker
CJ is a research associate at the University of Victoria and an educational content developer for a Canadian non-profit. Having had his T1D and other aspects of his identity used against him in school, work, and social settings, he has developed a passion for better, more inclusive communities. CJ has been investigating intersectional communities of care through his Master’s of Library and Information Science program.
Chrissy Keown
Facilitator
When Chrissy is not working as a therapist, she loves spending time enjoying nature, watching football and tennis, and using her creative brain, whether through DIY projects, painting, decorating her house, or finding the best deals at garage sales and making it into something beautiful (but it must be pretty!). Chrissy has had T1D since since was 4 years old.
Ian Faulds
Speaker
Ian is a retired teacher and outdoor educator currently working at the Kortright Centre for Conservation in Vaughan, ON. He is approaching his 50th year living with T1D. He is a founding member of Friends of Camp Huronda and is currently the chair of Huronda’s 50th Anniversary Committee. While there is an understandable emphasis in the medical community and charitable organizations on children with T1D, there appears to be some gaps in organized, focused support for older adults living with T1D. Ian is keen to look for ways to create supportive communities for adults with T1D that will promote our health and well-being as we get older. When he’s not sharing the joys of the great outdoors with children and families at Kortright, you’ll find him riding his bike, paddling his canoe or gliding with his skis.
Jen Hanson
CIM Staff + Speaker
Jen has grown up with Type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed in 1987, she has never let diabetes stop her from pursuing her passion. Jen is the Executive Director of Connected in Motion, where she works to bridge the gap between clinical care and 'real life' for adults with Type 1 diabetes. Jen also works with the Children with DIabetes youth program, as well as the Type 1 Think Tank. She has volunteered around the world with the Young Leaders in Diabetes, and been involved with Camp Huronda and the Diabetes Education and Camping Association. Jen is on the Leadership Council with Beyond Type 1. She loves to travel, be outside, and spend time at her cabin with her family. Jen is a Registered Kinesiologist, Certified Diabetes Educator, and Teacher. She has a Masters Degree in Education, focused on Experiential Diabetes Education.
Kearah Cloer
Facilitator
Kearah is a nature and adventure lover. She longs for hiking up mountains to alpine lakes, swimming in waterfalls, surfing, and doing photography along the way. She is very passionate about personal growth, self-awareness, and pushing boundaries to live authentically. She was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2018 after being very sick for months, and a year later was diagnosed with Graves’ disease and went through thyroidectomy surgery. Going through those hardships brought Kearah so much strength and taught her how to be in tune with her body. They are the events that catalyzed her spiritual journey and guided her to the path she's currently on today. Kearah am a certified Hatha yoga teacher with 200 hours of YTT, a certified reiki master/ teacher, and a certified prenatal, birth, and postpartum doula. Currently she's in school working towards becoming a clinical herbalist.
Lorraine Anderson
Speaker
Lorraine has a long history with Connected in Motion! By background, Lorraine is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. She has worked at William Osler Health Centre, Women’s College Hospital, Animas Canada and most recently/currently with Tandem Diabetes Care. Lorraine has spent many summers at Camp Huronda and volunteering with Children with Diabetes. She has had the privilege of presenting workshops across Canada to both health care professionals and families who live with type 1 diabetes. When not at work, Lorraine can be found on a golf course, ski hill, tennis court or enjoying her island home in Parry Sound, ON. She has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 30 years and understands firsthand the daily ups and downs of life with diabetes.
Meghan Lowry-Freitag
Facilitator
T1D for 35+ years. Meghan holds an MBA in Hospitality & Tourism and has a great passion for working with people. She is a Family Studies and Social Science Highschool teacher where her primary focus is in Nutrition & Health. She is always encouraging her students, no matter their dietary & health concerns, to be adventurous in the kitchen and never be afraid of playing with their food - adding some friendly competition can only add to the fun!
Michel Godbout
Panelist
Michel has been living with T1D for the past 45 years. He was an elementary school teacher who retired in June of 2019 after 30 years. In the past Michel was an Outward Bound instructor and program manager taking people on wilderness adventure trips of self-discovery. He also co-lead expeditions in the Soviet Siberia and Canadian Arctic as well working in the jungle of Guyana as a facilitator between scientists and Canadian youths. He also moderates a Men's T1D Mental Health group on Zoom which meets once a month. Michel is a proud father of two adult boys who have kept him physically and mentally active for the past 27 years. Michel keeps himself busy with outdoor pursuits (canoe tripping, whitewater kayaking/canoeing, hiking, telemark skiing and in the past dogsledding) and helping his amazing and supportive wife Sue operate a small Maple Syrup and Apiary business in Mono Ontario.
Saloni Aggarwal
Speaker
Saloni is a medical student, diabetes researcher, and outdoor enthusiast. Originally from Vancouver, B.C., she completed her B.Sc. at Western University, studying biology and genetics. She went on to complete her M.Sc. in Experimental Surgery at the University of Alberta, under Dr. Andrew Pepper, studying diabetes and islet cell transplantation. She is currently a third year medical student at Queen’s University. Saloni has been living with diabetes for 5 years, and has enjoyed connecting with the T1 community and going on CiM adventures. When not in the lab or studying for an exam, you can find Saloni searching for a good donut shop, on a hike, or falling off a paddleboard.
Sam Tullman
Speaker + Facilitator
Sam Tullman, MPH, is one of the facilitators and co-founders of the DiabetesSangha. He was diagnosed with T1D at eight years old, and has been on a long arc of trying to understand the human experience and learn how to support meaningful and helpful experiences ever since, through the lenses of both science and meditative practice. He is a dedicated student of Rinzai Zen, but draws heavily in his practice from other Buddhist traditions, as well as modern Western psychology and Neuroscience. In his professional life, he is a researcher and consultant working primarily in the topics of emergence (“spiritual” or “altered" experiences) and contemplation, with a focus on EEG (electrical activity of the brain) and other brain-computer interfaces.
Siva Swaminathan
Facilitator
Siva's passion for cooking started in her grandmother’s kitchen in South India when she was 4 years old. Being transplanted in Canada in the 70s, she helped her mom make daily meals. Being close to the kitchen was Siva's comfort zone as a teenager. After working in the IT field for 12 years, Siva perused her dream of being a chef by attending George Brown Culinary program where she worked alongside many of Canada's top chefs. She was diagnosed with Type1 diabetes in 2005, and has been using her culinary skills to develop Low GI, healthy meal planning for people with chronic diseases (diabetes, celiac, and cardiovascular issues) since 2007.
Tammy Hand
Facilitator
Bio coming soon!
Our Sponsors For This Event
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Slipstream Weekend, anyway?
A Slipstream Weekend is an active, social and educational weekend for adults living with Type 1 diabetes. But that explanation sounds so formal… What it really is… is a weekend jam packed full of outdoor adventure, engaging workshops, great food and incredible people. It’s a chance to connect (or re-connect) with like-minded Type 1s, get out and try something new, learn from each others’ experiences, and celebrate the year’s accomplishments – focusing on the positive aspects of what we CAN do with Type 1 diabetes.
What goes on at a Slipstream? Do you have a schedule ready?
Think of Slipstream as a choose your own adventure experience. You’ll have the chance to build your own schedule to create an experience that works best for you and your goals for the weekend.
When the schedule is ready, it will be added to this page under the Schedule At A Glance.
Who can attend a Slipstream Weekend?
Slipstream Weekends are available to people aged 18+ who are living with Type 1 diabetes. We have had participants from ages 18 to 82 and have no upper age restrictions as long as you are willing to bring a smile and a love for being active.
We do offer programs where your friend or partner living without Type 1 can join through our 5.5er series! Check out our 5.5er Slipstream or 5.5er Canoe Trip.
Getting There? Accommodations? Food? Packing List?
Oops, you’ve scrolled too far! All of that information is answered further up the page. Click here!
What is the vibe of the weekend? Is this like a conference?
Not really! Here, at Connected in Motion, we wanted to get away from the typical ‘conference’ style of learning. We want to have meaningful conversations, hands-on learning, and actually get outside and put into practice some of the strategies for living well with diabetes that we’ve all learned along the way. You can expect a mix between indoor learning sessions – sometimes we’ll bring in special guests to share with us, other times we’ll run group workshops – and outdoor adventure sessions – don’t worry, we’ll let you define adventure! Think, camp for adults!
I'm not super fit. I don't know if I'll be able to handle this event.
Of course you will! The CIM team are trained educators and adventure guides. We work hard to make sure that everyone experiences success, defined on your own terms. Whether that’s climbing a mountain, or just strolling to the trailhead, we’ll mould the experience to suit all ability levels. We’ll encourage you to step to the edge of your comfort zone, but we won’t push you off!
I have a special dietary need: celiac, dairy sensitivity, allergy, etc. Can the venue accommodate me?
We do our best to accommodate special dietary requests, and our team works closely with the venue to ensure they are aware of any food allergies or special diets in the group. If you have a special dietary concern, please be sure to let us know well in advance so we can find out what accommodations or substitutions the venue is able to offer.
Will there be low supplies on site, or do I need to pack my own?
Low supplies will be plentiful, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own! We’ll supply juice boxes, glucose tabs, granola bars, etc. As always, if you have your own favourites, please bring them along! (Maybe they will become our favourites, too!)
I see a lot of cool outdoor adventure activities listed. Do I need any of my own equipment?
Nope! For every activity offered at Slipstream, gear will be provided. It’s included in your registration fee!
What's included in my registration?
- Shared accommodation (usually bunk-bed style)
- All meals and snacks (Friday evening dinner through Sunday Lunch)
- Outdoor programming (past examples include: rock climbing, challenge course, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, etc)
- CIM-specific programming
What is NOT included?
- Transportation to and from the program venue is not included
- Diabetes supplies (make sure to bring everything you need for yourself!)
I'd love to join, but don't think I can afford it.
We never want someone to miss out on a CIM experience, simply because they can’t afford it. The purpose of the CIM Program Subsidy is to eliminate financial barriers for those who want to attend a Slipstream weekend or Adventure program. These subsidies are possible because of the fundraising by past CIM Adventure Team members.
To apply for a subsidy, please complete a CIM Program Subsidy Application.
What is the refund policy?
We offer full refunds for Slipstream program registrations until 30 days before the start of each program. Unfortunately, CIM is unable to refund Slipstreams registrations that are canceled less than 30 days from the start of the program due to arrangements with our host venues. For cancellations more than 30 days before the program, a refund (minus an administration fee) will be issued. To request a cancellation, please email info@connectedinmotion.ca.
I still have a question I need answered.
Still have questions? Send them to info@connectedinmotion.ca with Slipstream FAQ in the subject line and we’ll get your questions answered!
Don’t believe us? Just watch!
What Slipstreamers Had To Say
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