Edmonton Protocol 25th Anniversary Celebration
Introduction
In 2000, the publication of the Edmonton Protocol (EP) provided proof of concept for a treatment for diabetes beyond insulin replacement. This remarkable milestone helped achieve what was thought to be impossible: Type 1 diabetes patients becoming insulin-independent.
The recent 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Edmonton Protocol on June 4-5, 2025 hosted by the ADI was a great success with more than 160 attendees, including more than 50 islet transplant recipients – three of whom were from the original group of seven.
On Wednesday, June 4, a public event brought together islet transplant recipients, individuals affected by diabetes, researchers, industry professionals, philanthropists and dignitaries. Following opening remarks, Dr. Bernhard Hering, Dr. James Shapiro and Dr. Ray Rajotte, led an interactive discussion with the audience and answered questions about advancements in islet cell replacement therapies.
On Thursday, June 5, a one-day scientific symposium supported by The Gairdner Foundation explored three key themes: Beta Cell Replacement Therapy, Autoimmunity and Inflammation and Islet Cell Biology.
ADI Director's Message
I would like to extend a very warm welcome to this momentous two day event commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Edmonton Protocol. Today, we reflect on a quarter-century of innovation, dedication, and profound impact on the lives of individuals living with type 1 diabetes across Canada and around the globe.
The success of the Edmonton Protocol is a testament to the power of collaborative effort. We owe an immense debt of gratitude to the brilliant minds and tireless efforts of our researchers and clinicians, whose unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of medical science made this breakthrough possible. Their dedication transformed an ambitious vision into a tangible reality. We also extend our sincere thanks to the funding bodies* whose crucial support fueled this pioneering work, and to the provincial government and ß÷ßäÉçÇø Health Services, whose strategic vision and robust infrastructure provided the essential environment for such groundbreaking research to flourish.
Video Content
News
- CTV Edmonton Watch. June 3, 2025
- Global News Hour At 6. June 11, 2025
- CityNews Edmonton. June 5, 2025
- The Gateway. June 5, 2025
- Folio article. June 3, 2025
“It literally saved my life’: Edmonton Protocol celebrates 25 years of success”
Support our work
To continue to support the life-changing work of the ß÷ßäÉçÇø Diabetes Institute, please connect with Brooke Rose at ber@ualberta.ca and 587-974-2196, or visit our Giving page here.
If you would like to share a congratulatory message celebrating 25 years of this landmark achievement, or reflect on your experience as an islet recipient, staff member, researcher, donor, or in any other role connected to this journey, we warmly invite you to leave your message .
Sponsors
We thank our sponsors for their support in making this event possible.
