Sunday, March 8 is International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated globally and this year recognizing its 115 anniversary. On IWD we are asked to imagine a world that is truly equal. For that to happen, we need a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is not only recognized but also valued and celebrated.
The theme for IWD 2026 is ‘Give To Gain’. Because, when we give, we gain.
The IWD 2026 Give To Gain Campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration and emphasizes the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organizations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it’s intentional multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise.
This theme resonates deeply with Breakthrough T1D Canada, an organization with humble grassroots beginnings, started in the basement of type 1 diabetes (T1D) families desperate to find a cure for their children, but also to raise awareness of what living with this disease is truly like.
From our beginning, we have both supported women, but even more, have been supported by women. From the mothers who demanded more for their children, and their daughters who became some of the T1D community’s fiercest advocates, and who continue to do so today.
To our researchers, many of whom are women, and who continue down the path laid by trailblazing women like Dr. Priscilla White, who was an early pioneer in diabetes research and treatment. Dr. Dorothy C. Hodgkin who first discovered the three-dimensional structure of insulin, Dr. Helen M. Free, who along with her husband created Clinistix, allowing people to check their glucose at home, a significant advance in disease management.
These women played an essential role in advancing understanding of T1D, and the dozens of women researchers we are proud to support today continue this legacy, leading their own critical projects that improve living with T1D and driving us closer to cures. Women researchers can be found in all areas of T1D research, including precision medicine, cell therapy, screening and prevention, disease-modifying therapies, reproductive health and mental health.
Breakthrough T1D also supports a number of women fellows and post-docs, who are leading the next generation of researchers in all areas of T1D research.
To our donors, supporters, volunteers and partners who give tirelessly and selflessly so that these researchers can continue their critical work and get us closer to a world free from T1D. Who with all they give, allow other women to thrive in their field and gain the knowledge needed to make living with T1D safer and better today, while they work towards cures for tomorrow.
To our women-led organization, who are entrusted with the responsibility of stewarding that support with consideration and care.
We have come a long way since the first International Women’s Day 115 years ago, but there is still so much more work to be done. Breakthrough T1D Canada renews our commitment to ‘Give To Gain’ and continue the important work of creating a gender equal world.
