Landmarks and buildings across the globe will shine bright in blue on Friday, 14 November, uniting communities worldwide in recognition of World Diabetes Day (WDD), the world’s largest diabetes awareness campaign.
The annual lighting event symbolises solidarity with the more than 590 million people living with diabetes and aims to raise awareness of the growing global impact of the condition. Blue, the official colour of the diabetes community, represents the sky that unites all nations and the colour of the United Nations flag, emphasising diabetes as a global health challenge.
From the Empire State Building in New York to the Metropolitan Government Building in Tokyo and the Spice Arena in Malaysia, cities and communities on every continent will participate by illuminating landmarks, government buildings, hospitals, and monuments in blue light.
Not to be outshone, iconic buildings in Ireland will also be lighting up. Some of these buildings include Leinster House and the Mansion House in Dublin, Cork City Hall, and the famous Blarney Castle. Other structures include the Samuel Beckett Bridge in Dublin, Dun Laoghaire County Hall, Rock of Cashel, Sligo City Hall, Sligo BID and Belvelly Castle in Cobh.
“Seeing buildings light up in blue for World Diabetes Day fills me with hope and pride,” said Dr Kate Gajewska, Advocacy Manager, Diabetes Ireland. “As someone living with Type 1 Diabetes, it reminds me that I am not alone, and that together, we can raise awareness, support each other, and ensure everyone living with diabetes has access to the care they need”
World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in response to the growing health threat posed by diabetes. It is officially recognised by the United Nations and observed each year on November 14, the birthday of Nobel Prize Winner Sir Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of the life-saving medicine insulin.
Go Blue Your Way for Diabetes
As we approach World Diabetes Day on Friday, 14th November, Diabetes Ireland is encouraging everyone to participate in ‘Go Blue Your Way’.
Diabetes Ireland is encouraging the public to participate by sharing photos of illuminated landmarks or wearing blue on November 14, using the hashtags #WorldDiabetesDay and #LightItBlue on social media.
“We are looking to raise awareness and support for over 308,000 individuals in Ireland living with diabetes. We have many schools and workplaces going blue and raising some funds for Diabetes Ireland,” said Kate.
Why not get involved? Your involvement can make a significant difference by providing essential education and resources to those in need. Donate and go blue for diabetes. Let’s come together to empower individuals and foster understanding of diabetes.
Capture your moments, share them on social media, tag us, and help raise awareness by donating to Diabetes Ireland. Don’t forget to use #GoBlueYourWayForDiabetes.
Alternatively, you can email your photos or videos to info@diabetes.ie, and we will feature them across our social channels and members’ magazine.