Frederick Banting: The Man Who Created Insulin 

His legacy is celebrated worldwide on November 14th, World Diabetes Day, which honors his contribution to medical science and highlights the ongoing fight against diabetes.

Who Was Frederick Banting?

Born on November 14, 1891, in Alliston, Ontario, Frederick Banting showed early promise in both medicine and science. Initially, Banting studied theology at the University of Toronto, but his true calling was in the field of medicine. After completing his medical degree, he worked as a doctor in rural Ontario, where he developed an interest in diabetes.

At the time, diabetes was a fatal disease, with patients suffering from extreme weight loss, frequent urination, and eventually death, usually due to complications from the disease. The disease, caused by the inability of the pancreas to produce insulin, was known to medical professionals, but effective treatments were not available.

In 1920, Banting, at the time a relatively unknown physician, was inspired by a medical paper by Dr. J.J.R. Macleod at the University of Toronto. The paper suggested that the pancreas could be the source of insulin, a hormone crucial to regulating blood sugar levels. Banting convinced Macleod to support his research, and together with his assistant Charles Best, they embarked on a journey that would lead to one of the most important medical discoveries of the 20th century.

In 1921, Banting and Best successfully isolated insulin from the pancreas of dogs. Their experiment proved that insulin could control blood sugar levels, offering hope for those suffering from type 1 diabetes. The team refined their method, and by 1922, they successfully treated the first human patient with insulin, a 14-year-old boy named Leonard Thompson, who had been on the brink of death from diabetes.

Frederick Banting and World Diabetes Day

In recognition of his life-saving discovery, World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14, which marks Banting's birthday. The day is a global event to raise awareness about diabetes, its prevention, and its treatment. It also serves as a reminder of the critical need for continued research and support for those living with the condition.

Banting's work fundamentally changed diabetes management and paved the way for developing insulin therapies that have evolved over the decades. Today, insulin is a life-saving treatment for millions of people living with diabetes, and Banting’s contribution remains one of the most significant advancements in medical history.

The Letters from Children: A Heartwarming Moment in Medical History

One of the most touching aspects of Banting's legacy is the response he received from children with diabetes after they were saved by insulin. In the years following the discovery of insulin, Banting received thousands of letters from grateful patients, particularly young children who had been given a new lease on life thanks to his discovery. 

‍

These letters, written by children who had been given the chance to live a full life thanks to Banting’s work, symbolized the profound impact his discovery had on the lives of millions. Banting himself was deeply moved by these letters and was often quoted as saying that the gratitude of children kept him motivated in his research.

Moving Forward

While Banting’s discovery was groundbreaking, the work to improve diabetes care and develop better treatments continues today. World Diabetes Day is not only a time for reflection but also a call to action, encouraging the global community to support ongoing research and advocacy efforts. 

One of the ways people can make a difference is by participating in fundraising efforts on World Diabetes Day. These funds are crucial for supporting research into better treatments, a potential cure for diabetes, and improving access to care for those affected by the disease. Charities and organizations worldwide host events ranging from fun runs and walks to online donation drives and awareness campaigns. 

World Diabetes Day serves as an opportunity to educate the public about the importance of early detection, lifestyle changes, and the management of the disease. With the prevalence of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes rising globally, these efforts are more critical than ever.