I feel pretty invested in this day–November 14th–each year. World Diabetes Day…
Frederick (Fred) Banting, who would have been 122 today (!) was one half of the Canadian duo (the other was Charles Best) who by discovering insulin, prolonged the life of my mother Molly Ellis and millions of other diabetics worldwide.
“With the relief of the symptoms of his disease, and with the increased strength and vigor resulting from the increased diet, the pessimistic, melancholy diabetic becomes optimistic and cheerful. Insulin is not a cure for diabetes; it is a treatment.”
Sir Frederick Banting, Nobel Prize Lecture, 1923
Dr. Banting and Dr. Charles Best (a medical student at the time) worked together at the University of Toronto where they discovered a method to extract the hormone, insulin. It was a fundamental breakthrough in the treatment of diabetes.
Insulin is central to regulating (metabolizing) sugar and carbohydrate in the body. Without it there was little hope of survival for millions who, like my mother, were diagnosed with Type 1.
On January 23rd, 1922–a historic date–they tested their insulin serum on 14-year-old Leonard Thompson–who experienced almost instant relief. He survived into his thirties.
My mother, Molly, often referred to Banting and Best as her saviours–and they were. Diagnosed in her mid-thirties, she survived for over 30 years, dying from a diabetes-related heart attack at the age of 68. 
November 14th is also the anniversary of my father’s death–30 years ago. Tony would have been ten days into his 99th year today. 
RIP Mum, Dad and Dr Banting.
Millions of people have diabetes but are ignorant of it (for Type 2, there are often no symptoms in the early stage). It’s diagnosed by a simple blood test.
A good blog. Ellen
They saved so many lives and families with their discovery, true saviours. The day is being marked over here with people fundraising dressed in Blue. It’s also my twin Granddaughtes 2nd birthday today. Quite a poignant day for you with so many memories associated with 14th November sad andgood memories too.
True, Nora–thanks.
Some buildings here lit up in blue – City Hall, Belfast and other N.I.Town Halls too, good see and increased awareness of such a serious condition.
Beautiful stories and memories of your mum and dad, honoring them, Robin. Our gratitude to the work of Banting and Best. Thanks for bringing it to our attention. Long may you live, with joy and vigour!
Sorry to read that this is a sad date for you, Robin…but amazing to think of Besting’s discovery. I try to forget the dates of loved ones passing, but fondly mark their birth days. (Just like as a Beatles fan, I hate hearing all the John Lennon radio specials on Dec. 8. They should celebrate his music & his life on Oct. 9.) Sadly, my mom’s passing on the final day of school one year is one that I am forced to recall year after year.
I feel so sorry on your sad anniversary day. When your loved ones leave you for ever they also leave an empty space in one’s life that nothing and no one can fill or replace. I know that myself. Have courage, dear Robin. You are doing something for Diabetic people and may the miracle discoveries of Dr.F. Bunting and Dr.Best help you on your way. I am certain that’s the wish and also hope of everyone who has come to know you via your amazing blogs.
Dear Robin, R.I.P to your parents and Dr.Banting a great Doctor indeed.Please people with diabetes take your medicines and follow the diet, it’s so important but also enjoy life it’s still possible without sugar.My father ignored it, his stubbornness passed him away it gave him also other illnesses .Hughs Robin your a real good support for people with diabetes xxx.
Very, very interesting.
Thank goodness for insulin. So often I think of people who might have been saved from one illness or another, but the treatment had not yet been developed. Lovely pictures of your parents. And I can see some Poldark “dash” in dad!
How sad,the pain never goes away.
Hi there,
Almost in time for the world Diabetes Day, here’s this article from NPR, just in case you haven’t already seen it!
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2013/11/15/245250931/how-coffee-citrus-and-nuts-help-cut-the-risk-of-diabetes
Thanks for your lovely posts,
Nancy N
Thanks, Nancy.
Hi Robin,
I will be meeting you next May at your cooking class. I can hardly wait!!
I want to share with you that November 14 is also a special day for me. My mom and dad were married on that day in 1940.
Cheers!
Sandy Smith
Thanks for that Sandy–I look forward to working with you in May in Lautrec.