Chairman George Van Ankum and the volunteers at the North Perth – North Wellington Branch of the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA)are praising the volunteer canvassers and anyone who donated money and helped raise $46,456 in this year’s residential door-to-door campaign.
The area reaches from Clifford to Alma and Dundalk to Mitchell and includes all the towns in between. Not all areas are canvassed, but people who care to contribute send in their cheques or stop by the information centre in Harriston to make a donation.
When all the areas are covered and volunteers canvass one street or one rural route or one business, just think of the funds that could be raised to help nine million Canadians live a healthier life and to help researchers discover the elusive cure for diabetes in our life time.
The information office is open Tuesday and Friday afternoons from 1:30 to 4:30pm. Volunteers will direct visitors to the shelves of free literature and the books in the lending library, and will offer free information and conversation served with a cup of tea.
They are not allowed to give free advice on medication schedule or modify daily dietary requirements, but are allowed to advise visitors to contact a diabetes nurse educator, a dietitian and/or a doctor.
George Van Ankum is the chairman, the leader of the branch who is recognizable in the community and the media.
Alice Van Ankum is the membership convenor and welcomes the visit to learn about the benefits of becoming a member of the CDA.
She is also the program convenor and is calling doctors and health professionals to speak at the five meetings set for this year throughout the branch area.
Nancy Dietrich shares insight into the complexities of having diabetes for over 42 years.
Cora Anne Morden looks after the in memoriam donations and her daughter Audrey Morden is also a valued volunteer.
Theresa Johnston handles the literature and requests for information displays.
Grace Van Donkersgoed and Norma Madgett help with the coin box containers in their communities.
Henry Westendorp is the unofficial driver for office volunteers like Bonnie Whitehead, who requires a ride to get to the office to perform secretarial duties.
Founder of the branch Irma Ternan has moved to Newmarket but still remains involved.
The office has survived for over 37 years with the help of volunteers and area representatives. It will continue to offer assistance and assurance that people are not travelling alone in their diabetes journey.
Donations of used clothing and household goods are also accepted through the Clothesline Program.
Call 519-338-3181 or email npnw@diabetes.ca for further information.
