The Marc and Valerie Fishman Type 1 Diabetes Scholarship Fund
Supporting the Next Generation
Our Mission
Established in 2023, the Marc and Valerie Fishman Scholarship program
will provide scholarships to students with type 1 diabetes.*
*In our inaugural year, the Marc and Valerie Fishman T1D Scholarship program
awarded 16 scholarships of $1,500 each to support the qualified educational expenses of students with type
1 diabetes who are pursuing a post-secondary degree in a healthcare field, including nursing,
dietetics, physical and occupation therapy, physician assistant and others.
Applications are now CLOSED for the 2024-2025 school year.
WHO WE ARE
Our Roots
Like many teenage diabetics, I did my best to lead a totally normal life, though everyone with diabetes knows that it is impossible to lead a totally normal life. Diabetes impacts everything we do.
So, after graduating high school I enrolled in the first college-based nursing program in Montreal. I soon learned that some of my instructors thought that diabetics had NO PLACE IN NURSING. They did everything they could to fail me, including giving pop-quizzes when I went for my weekly blood sugars at the Royal Victoria Hospital.
Now, over 50 years later and a lifetime of work as an ICU RN, oncology RN in my husband's medical practice, and a founder of Oncology Analytics, I now have the opportunity to give something back. Based on my experience and observations, diabetics are exceptional RNs. They bring an unmatched understanding of illness and deep compassion for the suffering of others.
The Marc and Valerie Fishman Scholarship fund has been established to provide financial support and to recognize diabetics entering health care programs, with a focus on nursing.
Co-founder
Valerie Fishman, RN
People ask me how I can be so optimistic and happy with life and also be a diabetic. As a teenager I simply came to the conclusion that I have to live every day and move forward. When an RN instructor told me that I didn't belong in nursing, I asked her, "What should I do? Twiddle my thumbs?"
In addition to my RN degree, I earned a BSc in Healthcare Administration and a Masters in Psychology. I am a licensed mental health counselor and one of very few people in Florida with 2 healthcare licenses.
I don't think I am particularly special, and I know that anyone with diabetes who has a positive attitude and is willing to work hard can achieve success.
This photo was taken in a remote area of the South Island of New Zealand
Co-Founder
Marc Fishman, MD
I practiced hematology/oncology for many years. During that time, Val administered chemotherapy to cancer patients. It was not unusual to hear animated conversations and laughter coming from the chemo suite. Val always thought this was normal, but I know that most chemo suites are depressing and silent. Val's love of people and understanding of illness made the difference.
We are now retired and are fortunate to be able to help the next generation of nurses and other healthcare professionals provide high quality and compassionate care to their patients.
Together Val and I have traveled to every continent. This picture was taken off the east coast of Greenland
We would like to thank our supporters. Without their help, we would not be able to provide these scholarships
DRIF
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation (DRIF) is the organization of choice for those who are serious, passionate, and committed to curing diabetes. Its mission – to provide the Diabetes Research Institute with the funding necessary to cure diabetes now – is a testament to the belief that tomorrow is not soon enough to cure those living with diabetes.
The Fishmans have supported the DRIF for 40 years. We are happy to have the opportunity to assist them in this endeavor to help students with diabetes.
DECA
The Diabetes Education and Camping Association (DECA) unites the worldwide diabetes camping community through leadership and education, as well as sharing resources to advance programs that dramatically impact people’s lives. We are delighted to support the Marc and Valerie Fishman Type 1 Diabetes Scholarship fund to further improve the lives and opportunities available to people with type 1 diabetes.
