Honoring Sir Frederick Banting: The Legacy Behind World Diabetes Day

On November 14, people across the globe pause to recognize World Diabetes Day—a day of awareness, education, and advocacy for the millions affected by diabetes. But why this particular date? It’s the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, the Canadian physician and scientist who co-discovered insulin in 1921—an innovation that turned a deadly diagnosis into a manageable condition.

At Dream Maker Pins, we believe in the power of small things to create big conversations. Our Diabetes Awareness Ribbon Enamel Pin isn’t just a piece of metal—it’s a symbol of strength, solidarity, and the lives forever changed thanks to Banting’s discovery. Whether you wear it for yourself, a loved one, or the cause, this pin is a small but powerful statement that says: “I see you. I support you.”

Let’s take a deeper look into the story of Sir Frederick Banting and why his legacy still matters over a century later.

Who Was Sir Frederick Banting?

Born on November 14, 1891, in Ontario, Canada, Frederick Banting started his career as a physician but soon became a pioneering medical researcher. In the early 1920s, diabetes was a death sentence. People—often children—suffered from extreme weight loss, fatigue, and coma, with very little hope of survival.

But Banting, along with medical student Charles Best, biochemist James Collip, and mentor John Macleod, discovered a way to extract insulin from the pancreas and use it as a life-saving treatment.

In January 1922, the team administered insulin to a 14-year-old boy named Leonard Thompson, who was in a diabetic coma. Miraculously, Leonard survived, marking one of the greatest breakthroughs in medical history.

Why November 14 Matters

World Diabetes Day was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization. It became an official United Nations Day in 2006. The date wasn’t chosen randomly—it honors Sir Banting’s birthday, reminding us how far we’ve come thanks to his work.

More than just a memorial, World Diabetes Day is a global call to action. It brings attention to the importance of early detection, education, access to insulin, and funding for research. The blue circle logo of the campaign represents the unity of the global diabetes community.

The Modern Diabetes Landscape

Today, more than 537 million people worldwide live with diabetes. It comes in multiple forms:

• Type 1 (autoimmune and typically diagnosed in childhood)

• Type 2 (lifestyle and genetically influenced)

• Gestational diabetes (during pregnancy)

Though insulin is no longer experimental, access to it remains a challenge in many parts of the world. Rising costs, healthcare inequities, and misinformation continue to put lives at risk.

That’s why awareness tools—like our Diabetes Ribbon Pin—matter. They spark conversations, connect communities, and serve as visual reminders that this cause needs attention year-round.

Why We Made the Diabetes Awareness Ribbon Pin

At Dream Maker Pins, we know pins aren’t just accessories—they’re little moments of meaning. Our gray and blue enamel ribbon with a blood drop was created to help people show their support in a tangible way.

Whether you’re a nurse, a parent, a caregiver, or someone living with diabetes, this pin says something important without you having to say a word.

Details at a glance:

• 1-inch tall

• Gray and blue enamel with a red blood drop

• Silver plating

• Includes black rubber pin back (locking pin back upgrade available)

• Comes on a pin card—perfect for gifting or display

This pin is especially meaningful for World Diabetes Day, Diabetes Awareness Month (November), and as a year-round reminder of the fight for accessible care.

5 Nonprofits You Can Support for World Diabetes Day

We believe in supporting great causes— we encourage everyone to learn more and support directly. Here are a few organizations doing incredible work in the diabetes community:

1. JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation)

Focuses on funding Type 1 diabetes research and advocating for better treatments, cures, and insulin access.

2. DiabetesSisters

A nonprofit supporting women with all types of diabetes through education, peer support, and advocacy.

3. Beyond Type 1

Modern, bold, and community-driven, this org empowers people with Type 1 and Type 2 through resources, tech access, and stories.

4. Insulin for Life USA

Provides insulin and diabetes supplies to under-resourced countries and communities in crisis.

5. Children with Diabetes

Offers family-centered support and hosts the well-known “Friends for Life” conferences focused on community, connection, and education.

Each of these organizations represents a different piece of the diabetes journey—from research to emotional support—and they all deserve our attention, amplification, and help.

How You Can Participate in World Diabetes Day

Want to get involved? Here are some simple ways to take part and spread awareness:

✔️ Wear a gray and blue ribbon (we’ve got the perfect one)
✔️ Share facts on social media using the hashtag #WorldDiabetesDay
✔️ Talk to your workplace or school about awareness campaigns
✔️ Support one of the nonprofits above
✔️ Reach out to a friend or family member with diabetes and offer a kind word

And remember, advocacy isn’t just for one day a year. Every time you wear a pin, share a post, or tell a story—you’re helping to break stigma and build support.

Small But Mighty

Sir Frederick Banting didn’t set out to change the world—he simply followed his curiosity and compassion. And that led to one of the most significant medical discoveries of our time.

Today, we remember him not only for what he discovered, but for the millions of lives saved and extended because of it.

So whether you’re living with diabetes or standing beside someone who is, know this: you are not alone. And your voice, your story, and yes—even your pin—can make a difference.

Explore the Diabetes Awareness Ribbon Pin
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