Daniel Hurtubise had been living with diabetes since he was 15. 2 weeks ago, at 50, he launched an effort to cycle across Canada raising funds and awareness for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. He was joined on the ride by his son Alexandre, his daughter Sonia, and a friend.

Eager to leave an extraordinary legacy and to help a cause that affects the lives of many Canadians, our friend asked his children a simple question that would change their daily lives. As they were cycling on a sunny Sunday afternoon in 2005, Daniel exclaimed: “Hey! Alex, Sonia, how would you like to cycle across Canada to raise funds for diabetes research and increase diabetes awareness?” [JDRF]

In 2 weeks they logged over 2 000 kilometres. They had just entered Manitoba when the ride came to a sudden and tragic end this weekend.

They were riding on a section of the Trans Canada without a paved shoulder. Their support vehicle was stopped up ahead when the entire group was hit from behind by a driver in a Honda Civic. Daniel, and his friend were killed instantly. Daniel’s son was taken to hospital and released, while his daugther remained in stable condition. [CP]

The journey was dubbed the Ride of a Lifetime. It certainly was. You can experience their ride through their blog at Readers Digest.

There are many research groups dedicated to discovering more about Diabetes. I am running in support of the Canadian Diabetes Association in 2 marathons in the next year; one in Disney World in January, the other on Easter Island in June.

While I’m not running in direct support of the JDRF, my cause is still to raise awareness and funds for those living with Diabetes, people like Daniel.

Here’s an excerpt from Daniel’s blog that give some insight into why athletic endeavours like Team Diabetes and the Ride of a Lifetime are important, and a huge accomplishment for diabetics.

Day 13, Swift Current to Moose Jaw 177km. For some unknowed reason I had a very bad day with my diabetes, during the whole day I could not transform my carbohydrates and protein to energie. The whole day I had a terrible headache, I was weak and could not think straight. Alex, Sonia Robert and François were very concerned, everyone was very quit and did not know what to do, I told them that despite the situation the day had to go on. A bad day for a diabetic trying to control his/her energy is much worst than riding 177km… Ask any type 1 diabetic and they will all agree with me… [Ride of a Lifetime]

If you’ve been moved by the tragic end to Daniel’s dream, there are 3 ways you can help out.

1. Donate to the Ride of a Lifetime
2. Donate to Team Diabetes Easter Island
3. Join Team Diabetes Disney World and take up the journey in Daniel’s memory

I now have another reason to get out and work twice as hard at these two efforts – join me.

The Blog According to Buzz. Spread the word, ya heard?