Toronto, ON – On June 1, Simeon King will embark on an 81-day cycling journey spanning the width of Canada, pedaling from Vancouver, British Columbia to St. John’s, Newfoundland in a bold effort to raise awareness and support for people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The cross-country initiative, dubbed Cycle for Type 1, is sponsored by Diabetes Express, a division of Bayshore HealthCare, and aims to raise $100,000 for the Canadian charity I Challenge Diabetes (ICD).
Living with T1D himself for over a decade, King’s journey is both a personal and community-driven mission to shed light on the daily realities of the condition—an autoimmune disease that affects nearly 300,000 Canadians and requires constant blood sugar management, insulin therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
“Living with type 1 for over a decade has taught me the importance of resilience and community support,” said King in a statement. “I Challenge Diabetes has transformed countless lives, including mine, by providing education, adventure, and peer support.”
Founded to provide adventure-based programming and peer mentorship, I Challenge Diabetes connects youth and adults managing T1D through shared experiences, helping them build confidence and push beyond perceived limitations. During his 7,500-kilometre ride, King will stop in 14 communities across Canada, hosting local events that encourage connection, education, and advocacy.
Chris Jarvis, founder of ICD and a former Olympian, praised the campaign: “Simeon’s journey is a powerful testament to the strength and determination of members of the T1D community. We are honoured to be part of this initiative.”
Diabetes Express, a longtime supporter of diabetes care in Canada, is backing the ride as part of its commitment to empowering people with diabetes. “Simeon’s Cycle for Type 1 embodies the same resilience and determination that fuels our team’s passion and purpose every day,” said Aleksandra Filipovic, National Director at Diabetes Express.
The funds raised during the ride will support ICD’s expanding network of programs and services. The charity’s mission is to ensure no one feels alone while navigating life with T1D—a sentiment King understands well from his early years managing the disease.
Supporters can follow Simeon’s journey and contribute to the cause at cyclefortype1.ca.
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