By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Milton diabetes advocate Chloe Pow recently celebrated a double milestone: National Diabetes Day and the sixth anniversary of her Wear Blue for Chloe initiative.
The campaign encourages individuals to wear blue to support Chloe and others living with Type 1 diabetes, spreading awareness about the condition.
Chloe was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age four, just days before Halloween, a holiday most children associate with candy. Instead, Chloe spent that Halloween in a hospital.
“Many people misunderstood my diagnosis,” Chloe said. “Some assumed it was caused by eating too much sugar, and even my classmates thought diabetes was contagious.”
Chloe monitors her glucose levels daily. If her blood sugar is too high, she takes insulin. If it drops too low, she must eat to bring it back to a safe range.
“It’s not great when my numbers change during recess,” she said. “When that happens, I have to sit out, and it’s not fun.”
Her father, Conrad Pow, who works in diabetes research, recalled the family’s devastation at Chloe’s diagnosis.
“You’re shocked and awed because no parent wants to hear their child has diabetes,” Conrad said. “When you understand how bad it can get if not treated properly, it’s really worrying.”
Initially, Chloe required up to seven insulin shots per day. Over time, her treatment became less invasive. She now uses an insulin pump, which requires one needle every three days, and a Dexcom glucose monitor, which lasts ten days.
Chloe has turned her challenges into advocacy. She educates others by handing out candy with informational cards about Type 1 diabetes symptoms and misconceptions. One of her efforts even led a teacher to recognize early symptoms in another child, prompting an early diagnosis.
“It just shows the power of relaying the message,” Conrad said. “That’s one more person diagnosed before it became serious. Since then, we’ve met so many people with diabetes. Seeing others with glucose monitors often starts conversations.”
Chloe’s advocacy extends beyond her school. She participates in awareness campaigns, videos, and the Pump Couture fashion show, where she proudly displays her diabetes devices.
“It feels good to show people that they are more than diabetes,” Chloe said. “They have dreams and hopes, and nothing will stop them.”
This year, Chloe wore a Blue Jays jersey, inspiring hundreds of supporters to share posts under the hashtag #WearBlueForChloe. The campaign gained attention from figures like MP Adam van Koeverden and Canadian singer Bif Naked.
“We want people to ask, ‘Why are we wearing blue?’” Conrad said. “Starting that dialogue about Type 1 diabetes is what matters most.”
Blue, symbolizing unity and health, is recognized globally as the colour for diabetes awareness. The blue circle, adopted by the International Diabetes Federation, represents the global fight against diabetes.
Diabetes in Ontario: A Growing Concern
Diabetes remains a significant public health challenge in Ontario. According to Diabetes Canada, people with diabetes are at greater risk of complications, including heart disease, kidney failure, and amputations.
Youth inactivity and obesity compound these challenges. In Ontario, 61.3% of youth aged 12 to 17 are physically inactive, while 30.5% are overweight or obese.
Organizations like Diabetes Canada provide resources, such as the 1-800 BANTING helpline, and D-Camps, where children with Type 1 diabetes learn to manage their condition.
Since 2022, Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program has expanded coverage to include real-time glucose monitors for eligible patients. The Halton Diabetes Program also offers specialized care and education through workshops, individual appointments, and group sessions across the region.
Chloe’s advocacy, coupled with community support, continues to make a meaningful impact, raising awareness and understanding of Type 1 diabetes.
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