“Before he was an international country music star, George Canyon participated in the Canadian Diabetes Association’s D-Camps program in Nova Scotia. The D-Camps program runs camps where children living with type 1 diabetes can come together each year to realize they are not alone; the experience helps to normalize the disease, and inspire kids to realize they can achieve anything. George’s accomplishments in life are a great example and a shining light for all D-Campers, both in the music industry and now as one of the first Canadians living with type 1 diabetes to achieve a Category 3 Medical allowing him to attain a Private Pilot License.” Rick Blickstead, President and CEO, Canadian Diabetes Association.
In 2009, Canyon took his personal story and his own plane across Canada and organized talks and concerts to inspire youngsters afflicted with type 1 diabetes, with his inspiring message and project he named “The Sky’s Not The Limit”. He urged them to take ownership of their disease, pursue their dreams, and achieve their goals. “Being a kid is hard enough without having a disease that limits your choices. If I can tell my story and change a life or two, that’s the kind of imprint I want to leave”, says Canyon. His message “control your disease and live your dreams” has certainly been an effective one and today’s news is proof of that. “I am personally thrilled to achieve this huge milestone in my life and even prouder to have another great step forward for our Diabetic community”.
“This is an incredible accomplishment for George on many levels,” says Dave Prowten, President and CEO of JDRF Canada. “This is the culmination of technological advancements on how Canadians live with type 1 diabetes and the perseverance of my friend, George. I’m so proud of his commitment to continually break barriers that have previously limited the T1D community.”
Canyon is currently in the planning stages for ‘The Sky’s Not The Limit’ Program for 2016-2018, a partnership with JDRF Canada, with details to be announced this summer.
