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The Gift of Diabetes

Brion Whitford is an Ojibway who lives with advanced diabetes. In 2001, complications from the disease left him with only 50 percent kidney function and blood sugar levels that were spiralling out of control. Raised in the city, Brion grew up without knowing his culture or heritage. Consequently, he had little faith in traditional Native medicine and healing. But the more Brion's health deteriorated, the deeper his interest grew in connecting with his own culture and traditions. The Gift of Diabetes follows Brion's struggle to regain his health by learning about his heritage. His journey is a moving account of a man coming to terms with his own mortality, while trying to re-establish balance in his life.

Grade 10 - 12

Family Studies/Home Economics / Family Diversity and Challenges

Aboriginal Studies / Identity/Society

Educational purpose:

Ask students how it could be important to know their family history. Have students interview their eldest family member and create a timeline of that relative's life. After, have students use the information to write a poem or short story based on their family's lineage. Read the poem, "Dream Deferred" by Langston Hughes. This film contains coarse language.

Shirley Leblanc, Montréal, QC

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Comments

  • sherri-lynn

    sherri-lynn

      “I have watched this video a number of times with nursing students. We've often wondered how Brion is now. After reading Tiffany's post I am assuming that Brion has lost his battle? He was an inspiration!”

    20 Apr 2010
    Like
  • Tiffany

    Tiffany

      “ I was very close to Brion, so when I watch this i feel sad, he is truly missed and I wish i had the chance to say goodbye. Brion was so gifted and talented and his dark sense of humor rubbed off on me and im glad for it, it made me strong and who i am today. I'm so lucky to have had Brion be a part of my whole life. if only he knew how much that mattered to me...”

    14 Apr 2010
    Like
  • profit_adwriter@yahoo.com

    profit_adwriter@yahoo.com

      “This film is an eye opener. The view of thinking Diabetes as a gift... wonderful. I now have a way that leads. Thank you.”

    19 Feb 2010
    Like

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