Rowan S.

The Discovery of Insulin

Rowan S.
AVRCE Regional Heritage Fair
Wolfville, NS

The story is set in the University of Toronto from 1921 to 1923. Dr. Franklin Banting, Dr. John Rickard, Charles Best, and Dr. Betram Collip all worked for years to develop insulin from the experiments conducted before World War 1 on diabetic dogs. They were able to make insulin into an injection, when Dr. Betram Collip joined the team to fine tune insulin for human administration. In 1922, the first and second dosages were successful. They were administered to a 14 year old boy named Leonard Thompson who had been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The success of this invention allowed Leonard to live 13 years longer than was expected at the time. This remarkable discovery boosted insulin’s popularity, meaning they could improve their production methods and increase the number of people they got insulin to. In 1923, the Nobel Prize was awarded to Dr. Banting and Dr. Rickard. They recognized that their colleagues were also deserving of the award and they split the prize money. Insulin continues to be developed to this day, making it more accessible and hands off by using pumps and sensors. This incredible Canadian discovery has helped to save the lives of millions of people, and is a very proud part of Canadian history.

What is the historical significance of your topic?

Insulin was a historic moment because it was when we discovered how to save millions of lives. Beforehand, diabetic people were put on starvation diets because they couldn’t control their blood sugar. They often only lived months. With this discovery, diabetic people were able to live long and happy lives. It is a testament to the perseverance and care of Canadian scientists and medical workers. It shows the significance they place on helping others and how much they care about what they do. The discovery of insulin was so significant because it was the breakthrough to saving lives, made by Canadians who had dedicated themselves to the task.

Why did you choose this topic? 

I am seeking a career in medicine, and wanted to choose a relevant topic. Diabetes is something I would see everyday, and wanted to give myself the opportunity to learn more about it.