|
Rensselaer
A native of Toronto, Ontario, Gardiner has a 3.9 average out of a possible 4.0, is a member of Epsilon Delta Sigma honorary management fraternity, was the runner-up for the ECAC Rookie of the Year Award in 1997 and was a fifth- round pick of the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1997 NHL Entry Draft.
Unless you knew it, you wouldn't guess that, at aged 12, Gardiner was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. Rather than let the disease stand in his way, he has met it head-on, and, in fact, has helped others, similarly diagnosed juvenile diabetes.
In a letter of recommendation, dated January 15, 1999, a parent wrote:
"He (Gardiner) reached out to the local diabetes center looking to mentor children recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. One of the children he reached out to was mine. Recently diagnosed at age 8, my son felt he was now 'sick' and could no longer do 'anything.' What's more, my family treated him as though he was 'sick' and we all began to grieve the loss of our son and all the aspirations that we had for him. Our family believed that Jonathan could never lead a normal life again; that is, until we met Pete.
Today, my son plays hockey for a local association and leads his team in goals and assists. He has followed by example and become a 'pro' at managing his diabetes. Jonathan is so eager to help others just like Pete has helped him."
In addition to his being involved with one-on-one meetings with diabetes patients, Gardiner is on the organization committee of Cornerstone 52, an organization founded in 1989 by his father, Frank. Cornerstone 52 helps raise funds and organize events for children's charities such as the Ronald McDonald House and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. After graduation, Gardiner plans to be an official spokesperson for the Canadian Diabetes Association. In addition to his efforts for the Diabetes Foundation, he has been involved with Out of the Cold, a program that feeds and shelters the homeless.
|
