Sparkling, near-summer weather brought 40 Lions from around the state to learn about the research into the causes and management of diabetes. Dr. Robert Sherwin, Director of the Diabetes Endocrinology Research Center and the JDRF Center for the Study of Hypoglycemia at Yale University, walked us through the evolution of our understanding of diabetes and into today’s latest efforts.
A renowned research scientist and director of Yale University’s Diabetes Research effort, Dr. Sherwin has been deeply involved in the development of the insulin pump and the mechanical pancreas. He described current investigations into links between diabetes and the immune system as well as preserving precious beta cells in the pancreas.
Dr. Robert Sherwin discusses diabetes research with Lion Tom Raffile from South Meriden.
Dr. Sherwin lamented the epidemic of obesity and stressed the importance of weight control through diet and exercise as important methods for reducing the incidence of diabetes.
This is where Lions can make a powerful impact. “Right now, the general public feels slightly more afraid of contracting diabetes than being attacked by a shark,” said Lions 23B Diabetes Chair, Robert Bessel. “This misperception needs to change, especially since 9 percent of Americans now have diabetes."
Together with Lions Diabetes Awareness Chairs from District 23A – Cheryl Raffile, and from District 23C – Deb Updyke, Bessel said that Connecticut Lions will have access to literature ‘kits’ to use in fairs and supermarkets to generate awareness. The three chairs are also establishing a series of lab tours so that Lions can meet the Connecticut researchers on the front lines of fighting this disease.
Starting that effort were donations of more than $2,000 given by Connecticut Lions Clubs at the March 21st breakfast to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). If your club would like to donate to JDRF or the American Diabetes Association, please send your check to Bob Bessel, 4 South Street, Canton, CT 06019. Please make it out to District 23B and indicate which association you wish to receive your club’s donation.
As Lions, we can move the mountain of public indifference to diabetes and save the lives of millions of Americans at risk for diabetes today. Please consider appointing a diabetes awareness person at your club and scheduling a diabetes awareness event today.
Our first District Cabinet Meeting will be held on Monday, August 2, 2010 at The Gallery, 141 New London Turnpike, Glastonbury. We will convene at 6:30 p.m. and a buffet dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m. The cost is $20.00.