World Diabetes Day Celebrations
World Diabetes Day was named in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization to address the concerns surrounding the threat of diabetes. It is celebrated annually on November 14th (Dr. Banting’s birthday).
World Diabetes Day is a time to remember the importance of the discovery of insulin, Dr. Banting’s legacy, the history of diabetes and raise awareness for diabetes. It also serves as a reminder that, while insulin has been an incredibly significant and important treatment, we are still on the search for a cure.
Every year Banting House NHS celebrates World Diabetes Day and Dr. Banting’s birthday with tours, a birthday celebration (including cake and other treats, with the carbs counted of course!), reading of selected Dear Dr. Banting letters, the unveiling of new commemorative bricks and more!
An International Celebration
November 14th is recognized internationally as a day to raise awareness about diabetes. Not only will you find Banting House NHS lit up in blue, but some well known sites around the world also light up in blue to show their support.
Sir Frederick G Banting Square, London, Ontario, Canada. 
CN Tower, Toronto, Canada. 
Niagara Falls, Canada. 
Chris the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 
Great Wall in Beijing, China. 
The Coliseum in Rome, Italy 
Sphinx and Pyramids in Giza, Egypt. 
Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia 
Monumento a la Patria in Merida, Mexico.
The importance of place has long been a vital part of Banting House NHS and when it comes to World Diabetes Day it is no different. People from across Canada and beyond travel to Banting House NHS to take part in the World Diabetes Day celebrations. Even more importantly, those who can’t attend in person tune in to the festivities via our Facebook live steams. The 2019 World Diabetes Day live stream had viewers from India, Sweden, Japan, Cuba, the United States, and of course Canada!
Commemorative Bricks
You can build upon the work of Dr. Banting and write yourself into the story of Banting House NHS, by purchasing a personalized, commemorative brick. Whether you know someone with diabetes, are personally affected, or simply want to advocate for your community’s well being, this opportunity is one that you will not want to miss out on.
Bricks are officially installed and unveiled in the Global Garden – Sir Frederick G. Banting Square every November 14th as part of our World Diabetes Day and Banting’s Birthday celebration.
Until that time, the brick will be made and placed in a temporary exhibit inside the museum. A reminder about the outdoor unveiling will be sent out to all purchasers in the fall. We understand that you may not be able to attend, but do wish to extend the invitation join us.
Find out more about our Brick Campaign here or get your order forms here.
Blog Posts About World Diabetes Day
For more information on the history of World Diabetes Day check out some of our blog posts by our Graduate Research Assistants!
World Diabetes Day: Behind the Scenes