For over three decades, I've been living with Type One Diabetes. In this time, I’ve faced numerous health challenges, including a heart attack in 2017, which led to a hospital stay and the insertion of a stent. The catalyst for these severe health complications was my inability to afford the necessary supplies to manage my diabetes, particularly blood sugar sensors and insulin. Although the Saskatchewan government has made strides in covering insulin costs, there remains a significant gap in support for diabetics aged 25-65, specifically regarding Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs).

In Saskatchewan, individuals like myself who are disabled and living below the poverty line find CGMs to be an unattainable luxury. These devices are crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels and preventing severe health emergencies like mine, effectively equipping us with real-time blood sugar tracking. For diabetics, this kind of monitoring isn't merely a convenience—it’s a lifeline.

According to Statistics Canada, nearly 13% of Canadians are living below the poverty line, a figure that includes many diabetics. Without financial support for CGMs, those in poverty are at increased risk of health complications which could lead to more hospitalizations, ultimately increasing healthcare costs for the government. Covering CGMs would not only save lives but would also translate into long-term economic savings for the province.

We urge the Saskatchewan government to expand healthcare coverage to include Continuous Glucose Monitors for individuals aged 25-65 who live under the poverty line. This initiative would ensure that all Type One Diabetics, regardless of their financial situation, have the best possible chance to manage their health effectively.

Please sign this petition to call on the Saskatchewan government to prioritize the health and well-being of its low-income citizens living with Type One Diabetes by covering Continuous Glucose Monitors for those in need.