The local Lions Club is hosting a community breakfast to help a Windsor man maintain his independence.
Patrick Boutilier was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 1992. Before the Windsor Lions Club helped him purchase his first insulin pump in 2006, Patrick required five needles a day, in his stomach or legs, to manage his diabetes.
Patrick, who was born deaf, relies on the insulin pump to maintain his eyesight and independence. The $7,000 piece of equipment works 24 hours a day to regulate his blood sugar levels, preventing highs and lows that make it hard to complete everyday tasks.
When Patrick’s insulin pump broke recently, a Toronto company immediately sent him a loaner to borrow while he tries to raise enough money to replace it. The provincial government does not fund insulin pumps, but opposition parties are claiming this would change if the Liberals or Progressive Conservatives were in power following the next election.
“They last about five to five and a half years, but he got seven years out of it,” said his mother, Linda Boutilier.
“You have to be careful with diabetes. He has to look after his feet well and it can cause problems with the eyes,” she later added.
Patrick, a 10-year Wal-Mart employee who recently received the corporation’s prestigious Shining Star Award in recognition of his hard work, is saving up to purchase a new insulin pump by March.
But, he needs some help.
The Windsor Lions Club has agreed to help Patrick reach his goal. The club is hosting a benefit breakfast in Patrick’s honour Feb. 17 from 7-9:30 a.m. in the Lions Den, in the basement of the Hants County War Memorial Community Centre in Windsor. The cost is $6, and proceeds raised will help Patrick purchase the new insulin pump.
Donations for Patrick’s cause can be made payable to the Lion's Club until the end March.
