There is something very special about family for people with diabetes—it’s a lifelong diagnosis and family members will often stand beside you for your lifetime,” says Dr. Jan Hux, chief science officer for Diabetes Canada. She adds that while not everyone may have biological family members they can reach out to in times of need, they can often draw on other circles of support, such as friends or a church group. A perfect match Mirjana Rakic credits her husband of 20 years, Dejan, with seeing her through the many diabetes-related challenges she has faced. A source of ongoing strength By Anne Bokma For people with diabetes, their partners, parents, grandparents, siblings, children and friends are often great sources of support. Meet a family which demonstrates this. Family is not an important thing. It’s everything,” says the Canadian actor Michael J. Fox. For those with diabetes, these words are especially meaningful.