Glucose Grind endurance run raises over $9,000 to support Prince Edward Island seniors struggling with diabetes-related costs.
Fundraiser Supports Seniors Living with Diabetes
A new endurance charity event on Prince Edward Island—the Glucose Grind—raised over $9,000 this past weekend to support seniors living with diabetes. The event, held Saturday, attracted dozens of participants aiming to raise awareness and funds for Islanders who face the financial burdens of managing the chronic condition.
Route Stretches from Kensington to Charlottetown
The inaugural Glucose Grind spanned 65 kilometres, beginning in Kensington and ending in downtown Charlottetown. Participants had the flexibility to complete the route solo or in teams, whether by running, biking, or walking. The event took runners and walkers through rural stretches and urban centres, highlighting both the beauty and the solidarity of the Island’s communities.
Personal Motivation Behind the Mission
Organizer Geoff Kowalski, a long-distance runner and Type 1 diabetic, launched the event in collaboration with the Community Foundation of Prince Edward Island. Having firsthand experience with the high costs of diabetes management, Kowalski was motivated to act. “Many Island seniors are struggling—not just with insulin or glucose monitors—but with the basics like food security,” he said. He completed the entire route in just under 7.5 hours.
Rising Costs of Diabetes Management
Kowalski emphasized the financial weight of living with diabetes. A continuous glucose monitor alone can cost around $300 a month, not including insulin, needles, or dietary needs. “If you’re low income or retired, these expenses pile up fast,” he noted. The idea for the Glucose Grind stemmed from stories shared by his wife, a diabetic nurse educator, who often sees seniors sacrificing nutrition for affordability.
Shared Experience Among Islanders
Among the participants was Mike Hogan, an Island resident diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes last year. He echoed Kowalski’s concerns about the cost of healthy eating. “Processed foods are cheaper, but diabetics don’t have the luxury of eating whatever is affordable,” he said. Hogan, also a runner, has entered the 2025 Bath Half Marathon in the UK to support further diabetes research. He’s training for the Boston Marathon, requiring a qualifying time of 3:10:00.
Community Impact and Future Plans
The funds raised will go toward assisting low-income seniors on the Island in covering expenses for essential diabetes care. Kowalski and the Community Foundation hope to make the Glucose Grind an annual event, expanding its reach and support each year. “This is just the beginning,” Kowalski said. “The Island community came together this weekend—and we’ve proven that small steps lead to lasting impact.”
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