Maquetación 1 - Diabetes Research Institute

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation
DRIfocus
Summer 2008 / Volume 36 / Issue 1
Miami / New York / Long Island / California / Washington, D.C.
DRI DISCOVERS IMPORTANT REGULATOR
OF BLOOD SUGAR
Researchers from the Diabetes Research Institute’s Islet Physiology Laboratory
and the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, have identified an important
mechanism that helps the body maintain normal blood sugar levels. The novel
study was important enough to be featured on the cover of the June 2008
issue of the prestigious journal Cell Metabolism.
The regulation of normal blood glucose levels relies primarily on the function of
two types of cells that are found inside the islets in the pancreas – beta cells which
produce insulin, and alpha cells which produce glucagon. These cells work together
to maintain a delicate balance for normal blood sugar levels and prevent both
hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels).
Alpha cells release glucagon when there is an increase in insulin production and/or
a drop in blood sugar levels. In individuals with type 1 diabetes, this mechanism is
impaired or lost altogether.
The research team, led by Drs. Per-Olof Berggren, Alejandro Caicedo and Over Cabrera,
found that, in addition to glucagon, pancreatic alpha cells also release glutamate, a
> Continues on Page 6
Fluorescent markers identify specific cell types within
the same islet. Image D combines the insulin, glucagon
and glutamate-containing cells involved in the complex
regulation of normal blood sugar levels.
DRI FOUNDATION SURPASSES FIVE-YEAR
GOAL TO RAISE $100 MILLION
“…The DRI Foundation now ranks among the leading diabetes fundraising organizations
in this country and internationally…yet we remain unique in the world of diabetes.”
> See Chairman’s Message on Page 2
Dare to Dream
A Silver Anniversary
Recently retired NY Giants
defensive end Michael
Strahan included himself
in the golf foursome
that he auctioned off at
D.R.E.a.M.S. in the City.
Former Dolphins quarterbacks Don Strock and
Dan Marino celebrated
the 25th annual Don
Strock Diabetes Classic.
> Articles on Pages 16
> Article on Page 13
Armani Exchange Supermodel
DRI Golf Classic in CA
Tackling Diabetes
Supermodel Izabel Goulart
proved that “Giving Never
Goes Out of Style” through
her support of the DRI at
the Armani Exchange store
in NYC's Soho.
Sports Journalist Roy
Firestone and Baseball
Great Don Baylor played
integral roles in the DRI
Golf Classic in California.
New England Patriots
nose tackle Vince Wilfork
hosted his fifth Draft Day
fundraiser benefiting
the DRI.
> Article on Page 12
> Article on Page 17
> Article on Page 13
A Message
from the Chairman
Dear Friends,
The close of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation’s 2007/08
fiscal year on June 30th marked the end of our five-year plan to raise
$100 million for the Diabetes Research Institute. We are extremely
pleased to announce that not only have we achieved our goal, but
have surpassed it by 25 percent, raising more than $125 million over
the last five years!
This is an extraordinary accomplishment and one that could not
have been realized without the unwavering generosity of our donors.
The DRI Foundation now ranks among the leading diabetes fundraising
organizations in this country and internationally. Yet with our singular
focus on curing those living with this disease, we remain unique in
the world of diabetes.
What is perhaps most notable is that almost 40 percent of the funds
raised during this campaign, across all donation levels, came from
contributors who had never before given to our organization, including
many of you reading this issue of DRIfocus.
The importance of planned gifts cannot be overstated as the DRIF
was the beneficiary of a number of bequests throughout these past
few years. The legacy created by these generous individuals will help
to transform the futures of those living with this disease.
The significant involvement of our lay leadership also contributed
immensely to the success of our campaign. Many new members
have joined our National and Regional Boards of Directors, which
are comprised of dedicated individuals from around the United
States and as far away as Italy and England. Our leadership’s personal connection to diabetes and passionate resolve to find a cure
drives them to support the DRI and to engage others within their
own communities who share our mission.
Clearly the work of the DRI and Foundation is attracting the attention
of those who seek accountability, transparency and a focused mission
when supporting a diabetes organization. For each of the past two
years, the DRI Foundation has earned a four-star rating, the highest
possible, from Charity Navigator, the nation’s largest independent
evaluator of charities. Only 15 percent of all charities evaluated have
received back-to-back four-star ratings, indicating that “the Diabetes
Research Institute Foundation outperforms most charities in America
in its efforts to operate in the most fiscally responsible way possible.”
Each and every donor can feel confident that their contributions
were stewarded in the most responsible and efficient manner. Your
critical support of the Foundation has enabled the DRI to pursue the
newest directions in science, merging traditional research approaches
with cutting-edge, emerging technologies. Armed with these powerful
tools, DRI scientists are re-engineering the path to a cure for those
living with diabetes.
We invite you to learn more about these promising research developments, some of which are covered in this issue. As we embark on a
new year and a new plan, we will be sharing some exciting information
with you in the months to come. You have played an integral role in
the DRI’s tremendous progress and we hope to count on your continuing support. We are all working together for a common goal and
each of you is needed now more than ever before. Thank you again
for your generosity and commitment to this organization.
Sincerely,
Thomas D. Stern
Chairman of the Board
ANTHONY E. CHILDS
SELECTED TO LEAD FOUNDATION’S LONG ISLAND OFFICE
As the DRI continues its life-saving work toward a cure for diabetes, it is more critical than ever for the Foundation to raise
the increased funds necessary to support its many cutting-edge initiatives.
Efforts in Long Island have been key to the Foundation’s overall success. In order to fulfill its financial obligation to support the
DRI, the Foundation must continue to grow and attract new donors.To help spearhead additional fund-raising opportunities,
Anthony E. Childs has been appointed Long Island regional director.
“I am excited to be involved with an organization that is so focused on finding a cure for diabetes,” said Tony. “On my
visit to the Diabetes Research Institute, I was inspired by the drive and the commitment of the scientists working there. I have taken it on
as a personal mission to ensure that these researchers have the funds they need to continue their important work.”
Tony joins the organization after a long and established tenure in the nonprofit arena, where he held senior development and marketing
positions with human services and healthcare organizations. He has worked closely with several boards of directors and various committees
to achieve results at the American Cancer Society as director of major gifts, St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center in Smithtown as vice
president of development, and the Interfaith Nutrition Network as director of development. Tony holds a master’s degree in nonprofit
management and is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Additionally, he has gained nearly a decade of
experience in the insurance/financial services industry.
“We have experienced overwhelming growth over the last several years, and it became necessary for the Foundation to add senior level leadership
so that we can continue our momentum. Tony brings tremendous strength to this organization, and we are thrilled to have him join us,” said
DRI Foundation President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman.
NEW DIRECTORS JOIN NATIONAL,
REGIONAL BOARDS
Pictured left to right: Mark H. Ayers, William
Fishlinger, Glenn Kleiman, Alan S. Kava, Steven
Silva and Bruce Waller.
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members
to the National Board and three new members to the regional boards.
National Board member Mark H. Ayers of Baltimore, MD, is the
president of the Building and Construction Trades Department of
the AFL-CIO. Prior to his unanimous election on September 6, 2007
as president of the BCTD, Mark was the director of the Construction
Maintenance Department of the International Brotherhood of
Electrical Workers (IBEW) and chair of the National Maintenance
Agreements Policy Committee (NMAPC). He has held other positions
within the IBEW and attended the George Meany Institute for Labor
Studies (now known as the National Labor College), the University of
Wisconsin, the University of Illinois Institute of Labor and Industrial
Relations, and the International Foundation for Employee Benefits.
He also served his country as an aviator in the United States Navy.
The men and women of the BCTD are the Foundation’s largest
contributors. The partnership reached a milestone when the
unions funded and built the Diabetes Research Institute facility
in Miami, and they continue to raise millions of dollars for the DRI
each year through their Dollars Against Diabetes (DAD’s Day)
and other campaigns.
National Board member William Fishlinger of Plandome, NY, is
chairman and chief executive officer of Wright Risk Management
and is also the senior partner and president of the law firm of
Congdon, Flaherty, O'Callaghan, Reid, Donlon, Travis & Fishlinger. Bill
has been recognized for the creation of some of the most innovative
and successful risk financing vehicles, including NYMIR and NYSIR,
and has lectured extensively in the areas of general litigation, environmental law, medical malpractice, risk management and insurance.
A graduate of St. John's University School of Law and the State
University of Maryland, he is admitted to practice law in both the
Federal and State courts of New York. He also served in the United
States Air Force. He and his wife, Joan, established the Future
Leadership Foundation, whose mission is to control, prevent and
cure juvenile diabetes and other conditions that threaten the future
of young people. Both Bill and Joan are active members of the Long
Island Regional Board’s Executive Committee. Their tireless efforts
are in honor of their daughter, Alex, who has type 1 diabetes. They
also have a son, Matt.
National Board member Glenn Kleiman of Fox Point, WI, is president
and owner of Fullhouse, an interactive marketing agency in Milwaukee
and Chicago. Fullhouse provides services—such as website development and interactive games—for leading business-to-consumer and
business-to-business brands. Born in Miami Beach, FL, Glenn attended
Northwestern University, where he received a bachelor’s degree from
the Medill School of Journalism. He began his professional career as
a television news reporter and manager, winning four Emmy Awards
and a Peabody. He founded Fullhouse in 1989. His parents have been
supporters of the DRI Foundation since its earliest beginnings.
Glenn's late father, Marty, served as chairman of the National Board.
His mother, Marge Kleiman Mintz, continues to serve on the Florida
Regional Board. His brother, Gary, and his daughter, Alison, 23, have
type 1 diabetes. He and his wife, Gisela Terner, also have another
daughter, Marley, 16.
Northeast Board member Alan S. Kava of New York City is the chief
financial officer of the Whitehall Street Real Estate Funds, a division
of Goldman Sachs. He joined Goldman Sachs as a vice president in
1997 and became a managing director in 2002. Prior to joining the
firm, he worked as an associate attorney in the Corporate and Real
Estate Departments of Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett. Alan earned a
BA in economics from the University of Virginia in 1987 and a JD
from New York University’s School of Law in 1990. He and his wife,
Lisa, have two children, Ben, 9, who has type 1 diabetes, and Zoe, 6.
Northeast Board member Steven Silva of Long Island, NY, is the
president and chief operating officer of Chem Rx, a major, long-term
care pharmacy. He is responsible for overseeing the operations and
workflow at Chem Rx’s five sites, with continued focus in sales, marketing and client services. During his 16-year tenure, he has held
several positions within the company, including director of corporate
operations and vice president of sales and servicing. A graduate of
New York University, Steven is involved with a number of charitable
organizations and also offers guidance to over a dozen healthcarerelated non-profit organization committees. Steven’s mother battled
type 1 diabetes for much of her life, and he is determined to help
find a cure. He and his wife, Shanna, have three children, twins
Robert and Brandon, 7, and Alex, 3.
Long Island Board member Bruce Waller of Upper Brookville, NY, is
the president of Gold Coast Properties and Development, LTD. and
of GW Development, LLC. He is involved in private real estate development, operation and management and is also a New York State
licensed real estate broker. Prior to this, he served as an executive
of a large private manufacturing and import/export conglomerate
and as president of Décor, Inc. Bruce is also a member of the board of
directors at Congregation Teferith Israel. He and his wife, Long Island
Board member Roberta Waller, have been dedicated supporters of
the DRI ever since their daughter, Dara, was diagnosed with type 1.
They also have two sons, Andrew and Skylor.
At the National Board’s May meeting, the 39-member group also
paid tribute to outgoing directors Samuel J. Fox, Eugene Milgram,
Marge Kleiman Mintz and Edward James Olmos. These individuals
will now serve on the Honorary Board.
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1. Sue (2nd from left) and Norman Kenyon with their
daughters, Pam Kenyon (far left), Dr. Norma Sue Kenyon
(2nd from right) and Cyndi Drake (far right).
2. The Kenyon family will stop at nothing until they find a
cure for Laura Mauriello.
THE KENYON FAMILY'S MISSION
Medicine practically runs in the Kenyon family’s blood. Patriarch Dr. Norman Kenyon is a retired surgeon who volunteers his services in the labs
at the Diabetes Research Institute. Past chief of staff at both Baptist Hospital and Doctors Hospital in South Florida, he continues to serve as
trustee of Baptist Health and chairman of the board at Doctors Hospital. His wife, Sue, is a registered nurse, and their three daughters all work
in the medical field – possibly the most recognized being the DRI's Dr. Norma Sue Kenyon.
But it’s the third generation that drives their passionate commitment to find a cure for diabetes. Sixteen-year-old Laura Mauriello, Sue and
Norman's granddaughter and Norma’s daughter, was diagnosed as an infant, and the family will stop at nothing until a cure is found.
For Norman, working in the DRI labs side-by-side with his daughter, and serving on the Foundation’s Florida board, simply weren’t enough.
He wanted to do more. As a retiree living on a fixed income, he determined that the best way to maximize a financial gift was through life
insurance.Together, he and Sue made the DRI Foundation the beneficiary of their life insurance policy which provided them with an immediate
tax deduction for the lesser of the policy’s fair market value or the net premiums paid. In order to build value in the policy, the Kenyons
continue to make contributions to cover the cost of subsequent premiums. This provides them with an annual deduction as well.
“I’m very tied in to fundraising, and it was clear to me that life insurance was the best option for us,” said Norman. “My connection to the
cause couldn’t be more personal, having a granddaughter with diabetes and a daughter who is working to come up with a way to correct,
cure or eliminate diabetes.
“I’m also very proud that I can continue to teach, train and test different techniques at the DRI. There are so many complexities to achieving
our goal; the only way to do it is by working methodically and persistently,” he concluded.
With Norman and Sue’s gift, their names join dozens of others on a commemorative wall at the Diabetes Research Institute as members
of the DRI Heritage Society.
There are a number of ways that insurance can be used to support the DRI. By naming the DRI Foundation as the beneficiary of your life
insurance policy, you can turn a relatively modest annual outlay for the premium into a much larger gift, and you will receive an estate
tax deduction for the insurance proceeds. To learn more about utilizing life insurance to make a charitable gift, please contact the DRI
Foundation office at 800-321-3437 or [email protected].
DRIF’s Jeffrey Young
JOINS FICPA BOARD
OF GOVERNORS
Individuals who ensure the future of the DRI through generous
provisions made in their estate plans via wills, life insurance,
charitable remainder trusts, charitable gift annuities and
other planned giving vehicles are recognized as part of the
DRI Heritage Society.
Members are included on a designated wall of honor at the DRI.
They receive a special award, are invited to attend one of the DRI
Foundation’s annual donor appreciation dinners, and are listed
in the DRI Annual Report and several other publications.
If you have made provisions for the DRI or are planning to do so,
we would like to include you in this special group of supporters.
By becoming part of the Heritage Society, you are providing us
with the opportunity to express our gratitude while inspiring
others to support the DRI through their estate plans as well.
Please call 800-321-3437 to learn more.
Jeffrey Young, chief financial officer of the Diabetes Research Institute
Foundation, has been elected to the Board of Governors of the
Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA). Jeff will
represent the DRIF and other not-for-profit organizations based
in the state of Florida.
“It is an honor to be recognized by your peers and to serve on the
board,” said Jeff, who chaired the FICPA’s Not-for-Profit Organization
Conference held in Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa last year. Jeff has
worked for the DRIF for the past 14 years after spending the earlier
part of his career in public accounting and industry.
Tallahassee-based FICPA was founded in 1905. It is a professional
association representing more than 19,000 member CPAs
throughout Florida
FROM ONE GENERATION
TO THE NEXT
“Dad, don’t worry. God wanted me to be just like you.”
Most parents would be thrilled to hear such meaningful words spoken
by a child. But for John Reisman, his young daughter’s sentiment
struck him with an enormity of emotions that were far from simply
pride and joy. A true “daddy’s girl,” the pair shares the same hair color
and a love of swimming, tennis and boating. His eldest daughter even
loves to tag along with John at work, where she has her very own office.
But when Julia, 11, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it was one
thing John hoped they would never have in common.
“The day I found out Julia had diabetes was probably the most difficult
day of my life. Much harder than the day I was diagnosed. It couldn’t
even compare,” said John, who has been living with this disease
since he was 14.
John Reisman with daughter Julia.
“This disease is epidemic, not only in our family but in the world today.
We need to find a cure,” stated Kim. “My family and I believe the DRI is
the best hope for a cure, and we want to focus our fundraising efforts
on the Institute.”
While John was away on business, his wife, Lisa, recognized a telltale
sign in Julia, who was 7 at the time. “It was her sweet-smelling breath –
something Lisa had recognized on me when I had high blood sugars. She
took Julia to the hospital and said to the nurse,‘I think my daughter has
diabetes. Test her,’” John recounted. “When the nurse questioned her,
Lisa said,‘I just know.’”
Kim and John hail from a family of philanthropists, most notably
their maternal grandparents, Norma and Jack Parker, who created
the Jack Parker Foundation. This family foundation supports various
charities, mostly medical-related, such as the Parker Jewish Institute
for Health Care and Rehabilitation and the Diabetes Research Institute.
John is also the president of The Jack Parker Corporation – Florida, a
real estate development company located in Fort Meyers.
Unfortunately, John’s family knows the signs and symptoms of diabetes
all too well. His grandmother and great grandmother had type 2.
Following Julia’s diagnosis, his mother, Jane Parker, also developed
type 2, and his aunt was diagnosed with type 1.
Finding a cure has become the family’s top priority and they have channeled their efforts in support of the Diabetes Research Institute. Earlier
this year, Lisa and John, as well as Jane, each served as Platinum Sponsors
of the Foundation’s D.R.E.a.M.S. in the City event. One of John’s four sisters, Kim Dickstein, joined the Foundation’s Northeast Regional Board
and is very active in helping to raise funds and awareness for the DRI.
1
2
“My grandparents used to say,‘It’s so much easier to give than to ask,’”
said John fondly, and he tries to pass this trait along to his own
children, Julia and Jayda, 9.
John recently toured the DRI in Miami, spoke with the scientists and
saw firsthand the life-saving work being conducted there. “I was very
impressed and felt that the DRI is probably our biggest hope to finding
a cure. If you have faith and dedication, it will happen,” he concluded.
3
4
5
6
CYCLE OF DISCOVERY AWARDS
HYPOTHESIS AWARD: (1) Barbara Annis, (2) Ric Carter of Fluor Construction
QUERY AND HYPOTHESIS AWARDS: (3)Don Strock presents to Mary Jo (not pictured)
and Bruce Schumin.
(4) Barbara Singer presents to Elizabeth and Gary Hall, Jr., with baby Charlie.
QUERY AWARD: (5) Irwin Hochberg, (6) Mordechai Lebenberg of KNR Constructions
Hypothesis represents gifts of $50,000 or more. Query represents gifts of $25,000 or more.
For a description of the DRI Foundation's Cycle of Discovery donor award program, please visit www.diabetesresearch.org.
5 |
AROUND
THE DRI
DRI DEVELOPS FIRST EVER
“LIVING WINDOW”
to View Transplanted Islets
For the first time ever,scientists
can view transplanted insulinproducing islet cells in realtime. As published in the
prestigious journal, Nature
Medicine, DRI researchers
used a sophisticated noninvasive imaging system to
observe how islets develop
blood vessels and nerves
following transplantation.
DRI DISCOVERS
IMPORTANT REGULATOR
OF BLOOD SUGAR
> Continued from Page 1
neurotransmitter which facilitates the release of glucagon.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that relay, amplify and
modulate signals between a neuron and another cell.
“We learned that glutamate acts as a positive signal that
instructs alpha cells to speed up glucagon secretion in order
to prevent glucose levels from falling too low,” said Dr. Caicedo.
This process prevents hypoglycemia in those without diabetes,
as well as in islet transplant recipients.
Just how the body regulates the correct amount of glucagon
wasn’t clear until now.
“It is this signal pathway that is our discovery,” says
Dr. Berggren, head of Cell Biology and Signal Transduction
at the DRI and head of Experimental Endocrinology at the
Karolinska Institutet.“This interaction between beta cells
and alpha cells is crucial for normal blood sugar regulation.”
The researchers also noted that when beta cells do not
produce insulin, the alpha cells’ signal pathways are blocked,
which eliminates their ability to respond to changes in glucose.
Therefore, in those with type 1 diabetes whose beta cells
have been destroyed this entire cell process is hampered.
“We are now designing strategies to test the use of the neurotransmitter glutamate, which is critical to this mechanism, to
determine if we can prevent hypoglycemia in patients who
require insulin,” says Dr. Caicedo.
To view a video featuring Dr. Berggren speaking on this
novel work, please visit www.diabetesresearch.org.
The DRI team, directed by
Dr. Per-Olof Berggren from
the Karolinska Institutet in
Sweden, selected the anterior
chamber of a mouse’s eye as
a“living window”to monitor
islets in a live model.
“We chose this unique site
because the eye offers a
The prestigious journal, Nature
virtually unobstructed view
Medicine, featured the DRI’s groundthrough the transparent
breaking study on the cover, showing
the image of an islet (in red) engrafted
cornea,”explained
in the anterior chamber of the eye, with
Dr.Alejandro Caicedo from
the dense blood supply to the islets
the DRI’s Islet Physiology lab.
(in green).
“By implanting islets in the eye,
we are able to follow the same
cells over time and assess their function as well as the immune system’s
response to the transplanted cells.”
This novel viewing platform gives researchers unprecedented
opportunity to observe the effects of new drugs on islet engraftment,
function, regeneration and their ability to prevent rejection.
“Until now, scientists had no way of directly viewing and monitoring
the biological processes of islets upon implantation,” explained Dr.
Camillo Ricordi, scientific director of the Diabetes Research Institute.
That’s because in clinical trials islets have been infused into the liver,
making it impossible to view their activity in real time.The liver,which
is easier to access than the pancreas,provides a rich network of blood
vessels.However,similar to their native environment in the pancreas,
islets are scattered throughout and deeply embedded in the organ.
The Islet Physiology team is continuing these studies and exploring the
potential use of the eye as a transplantation site for pilot clinical trials.
DRI Presents Results of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Study
Investigators from the DRI’s Clinical Islet Transplant Program showed that the use of continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) in islet
transplant recipients can provide important data to assess how the transplanted cells are working.
In recent years, improved technology has provided clinicians and patients alike with the ability to monitor blood sugars around the clock in‘realtime’. Rather than a snapshot of a single blood sugar reading or a three-month average with a Hemoglobin A1C test, multiple readings per hour
are able to plot patterns and impact regimen changes.
In a study conducted by DRI researchers, CGMS was used to assess metabolic control in 25 patients with type 1 diabetes, including 12 who had
previously received islet transplants.The participants were monitored for three consecutive days and repeated every three months during
the 18 month study.
“We found the continuous glucose monitoring system to be useful in telling us how well our patients were doing after their islet transplant,” said
Lisa Gorin, DO, a third-year fellow in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism at the Diabetes Research Institute.The results were presented at
Mastering Your Diabetes is a unique educational
program for people with diabetes and their families.
Participants of diverse ages, professions and nationalities overwhelmingly report that MYD is a life-altering experience for them...
MASTER YOUR DIABETES
THROUGH INNOVATIVE DRI PROGRAM
Insulin therapy is essential for life in those with type 1 diabetes
and is an increasingly required therapy for people with type 2
diabetes. Perhaps there is no other condition that requires so much
diligence and proactive management on a minute-to-minute basis
to achieve normal blood sugar control. To provide the level of
knowledge needed to accomplish this, the DRI has designed an
empowering diabetes self-management program, Mastering Your
Diabetes (MYD), which is a unique educational and experiential
program for individuals using insulin therapy and for their family
members or significant others.
This comprehensive five-day program provides insulin management
education and the necessary tools to make informed decisions
about blood glucose interpretation, insulin management and the
factors that influence diabetes control, all with the purpose of
promoting a flexible lifestyle and optimizing health outcomes.
One of the keys to the success of MYD is the unique perspective
brought by each participant. So while MYD is a group-based
program, it ensures achievement of individual needs.
Participants of diverse ages, professions and nationalities overwhelmingly report that MYD is a life-altering experience for them,
providing unique opportunities to interact with others with diabetes
and explore their self-management decisions in a supportive team
environment. Participation provides a better understanding of how
blood glucose levels respond to various lifestyle and therapeutic
changes, assisting participants in developing improved problemsolving skills and the ability to live more confidently and with
greater flexibility.
has gained a newfound knowledge of diabetes and his ability to
control blood sugar. He has regained physical well-being and selfconfidence and now feels in control of his life. In fact, he wants to
help others gain that same control. “I have felt an extremely strong
urge to help other diabetics that are in the same place that I was in
prior to attending the MYD class.” (To read a letter from Todd, please
visit the Mastering Your Diabetes area of our website at
www.diabetesresearch.org/DiabetesEducation&Management)
The expert education team is led by Dr. Luigi Meneghini, director
of the DRI’s Kosow Diabetes Treatment Center, and is comprised
of nurse practitioners, nurse educators, dietitians, psychologists,
and endocrinologists. The interactive and experiential components
of the MYD Program include daily review of personal blood glucose
records, insulin management options, activities to enhance proficiency in carbohydrate counting and opportunities for participants
to explore and express the impact of diabetes on their lives.
Participants receive comprehensive education and medical evaluation prior to the start of the course. During the program, laboratory
test results are reviewed as a way to teach standards of diabetes
medical care. This review also enhances skills for improved patienthealth provider interactions.
MYD is offered four times a year, and program participants benefit
from regular follow-up, support, and annual updates on state-ofthe-art scientific advances.
For more information, please contact Arleen Barreiros, the DRI’s
education coordinator, at (305) 243-3696 or visit
www.diabetesresearch.org.
Todd Dunnahoe, a recent MYD participant from Texas, wrote, “Prior
to attending the MYD class, I felt hopelessly out of control, like there
was nothing I could do to change anything. The MYD class has completely changed my life.” Todd, like many other MYD participants,
the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 17th Annual Meeting & Clinical Congress. Dr. Gorin was recognized for her oral presentation
receiving First Prize at the conference.
CGMS can be a useful tool as an indicator of islet graft function and the metabolic effects of islet replacement therapy.
“We found that those participants who had undergone islet transplantation had significantly fewer episodes of hypoglycemia throughout the study
period,” said Gorin.“They also spent longer periods of time in the normal glycemic range with overall improvement in glucose control and metabolic stability.
“We hope that with the use of real time continuous glucose monitoring we can better predict islet graft function, thus allowing us to intervene earlier in
the disease process,” Gorin concluded.
The Clinical Islet Transplantation Program is currently screening individuals for participation in a new islet transplant trial.This trial is part of the
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Islet Transplant Consortium (CIT).The new trials are aimed at extending long-term islet function and
improving anti-rejection drugs.
7 |
UNDER THE
MICROSCOPE
with Alessia Fornoni, M.D., Ph.D.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which
an individual’s insulinproducing beta cells are
mistakenly destroyed by his/her own immune system.While the
actual cause of this autoimmune attack is still under investigation,
researchers are uncovering a number of key factors that lead to
the onset of the disease.
In recent years, scientists have discovered that chronic inflammation
plays a major role in islet loss. DRI researchers are now testing
numerous anti-inflammatory agents to prevent islet destruction
while exploring how the different cells that make up the Islets of
Langerhans function. These cell clusters are responsible for regulating
and maintaining normal blood sugar levels. A better understanding
of the factors that lead to beta cell loss and contribute to normal
beta cell function will help in developing strategies to restore
natural insulin production in those living with diabetes.
Scientists are identifying many of the key molecules involved in
islet function. Among these is nephrin, a promising new therapeutic
target. Nephrin, derived from the Greek nephros, or kidney, is a substance essential for optimal kidney filtration, which eliminates toxins
produced by the body, as well as for the retention of certain
molecules needed for a person’s survival.
Although nephrin was thought to be a kidney-specific molecule,
scientists recently discovered it in the pancreas, where its actual
role still needs to be fully understood. However, recent findings
suggest that there is a link between the development of type 1 diabetes
and nephrin, thought to be a target of autoimmune attack.
At the DRI, Dr. Alessia Fornoni, assistant professor of clinical medicine
in the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, and her colleagues
have generated preliminary results showing that beta cells express
nephrin and that this molecule is vital for beta cells to secrete
insulin in response to blood sugar.
In diabetes, nephrin expression in the kidneys is reduced, which
contributes to the development of diabetic kidney disease. Dr. Fornoni
has demonstrated that this decrease of nephrin is also seen in beta
cells of patients with diabetes.
To further investigate this connection, Dr. Fornoni and her team are
using mice, lacking nephrin in the pancreas, to assess the protein’s
potential to prevent type 1 diabetes and also to delay the need for
insulin injections in those with type 2 diabetes.
Q. How does your research fit in to the DRI’s cure-focused mission?
A. Evidence that both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are chronic
inflammatory states led me to study the function of novel antiinflammatory agents for the treatment of diabetes. Inflammation
affects the ability of insulin to signal through its own receptor and
to maintain proper cell function and survival. If we overcome insulin’s
inability to signal, we can recover islet survival, function and viability
after exposure to inflammatory stimuli. We have generated preliminary evidence that this could also be the mechanism by which
nephrin facilitates islet cell function. Ensuring effective insulin
signaling and maintaining proper islet cell function is probably one
of the best ways to go about finding a cure.
Q. Can nephrin facilitate the development of insulin-producing cells?
A. Nephrin expression is critical for mature kidney cell development.
Knowing this, we are planning studies in collaboration with DRI’s stem
cell development team to explore the role of nephrin in the generation
of insulin-producing cells from immature cells known as precursors.
Q. What brought you to the DRI?
A. I obtained my M.D. and Ph.D. in Medical Pharmacology at the
Universita’ degli Studi di Pavia in Italy. I later joined the Renal Cell
Biology lab in the Vascular Biology Institute at the University of
Miami Miller School of Medicine. I continued my medical education
at UM, where I currently work as a clinical nephrologist treating many
diabetic patients. After being appointed assistant professor in clinical
medicine at UM in 2005, I had a strong desire to join a research institution committed to curing diabetes, and I was very fortunate to have
the opportunity to join the DRI team. I’ve always thought of diabetes
as a slow but persistent “Pac Man” that will slowly take over patients’
bodies and souls. Here, my training and research successes in diabetes
and diabetic complications can be quickly translated from the lab to
patients. The commitment of the DRI’s scientific director, Dr. Camillo
Ricordi, to finding a cure and his ability to harness talent from multidisciplinary areas of expertise are among the DRI’s biggest strengths
and was a major reason for my joining the institute.
Q. How does this multidisciplinary environment benefit your
research efforts?
A. At the DRI, my interaction with cell biologist Dr. Per Olof Berggren
is critical to characterizing the role of nephrin in insulin secretion.
The enthusiasm and encouragement of Dr. Ricordi; expertise of
immunologists Drs. Luca Inverardi and Alberto Pugliese; intellectual
support and technical assistance of Dr. Antonello Pileggi and molecular biologist Dr. Ricardo Pastori; as well as mentoring of physician
scientists, such as Dr. Daniel Mintz, will be instrumental in finding
a cure. I also have a close interaction with Dr. Jochen Reiser, recently
recruited from Harvard Medical School to become chief of nephrology
and hypertension at UM; Dr. Peter Mundel, basic science research
director of UM’s Division of Nephrology; and Dr. Karl Tryggvason, the
scientist who discovered nephrin in the kidney. I’m excited about the
recruitment of researchers with different scientific backgrounds and
believe this strategy will be pivotal in leading to new discoveries.
Q.What are your future research plans and how will that help find
effective treatments?
A. I believe that understanding and improving beta cell function is
necessary for finding a cure for diabetes. By knowing more about how
beta cells work, we can develop strategies to better preserve islets and
protect cells from the dangerous effects of anti-rejection drugs, inflammatory agents and the immune system. Nephrin is probably just one
of the pieces of the puzzle but, once the puzzle comes together, a cure
will be found. My patients are the driving force of my research.
Help, Heal, Inspire and Inform
THE BENEFITS OF
ONLINE COMMUNITIES
What the DRI Foundation’s PEP Squad (Parents Empowering Parents) has
discovered through its outreach to “diabetes families” across the country is
that several newly diagnosed kids and parents feel isolated in their local communities. There are countless cases where the child is the only one with diabetes
at the school, and the family has no one to turn to for advice or simply an
understanding ear from someone in the know. Many families, however, have
already discovered that online communities, social networks and web logs
(blogs) bring the global diabetes community to your living room (or wherever
your PC/laptop might rest!).
One of the first online diabetes communities that emerged and that
continues to be one of the most trusted diabetes resources on the web is
ChildrenWithDiabetes.com (CWD). Founded by Jeff Hitchcock in 1995, the site
offers a thriving support system and allows families to share experiences and
connect with each other.
“As a parent of a now young adult with type 1 diabetes, I am very optimistic about
my daughter’s future. Throughout the world, many doctors and scientists are
working very hard to unlock the secrets of type 1 diabetes,” said Jeff, who created
the site in response to his daughter’s diagnosis at the age of 2. “Until the day
that type 1 is no longer, Children with Diabetes helps families and kids to live well
with diabetes. Together, as a community, we learn and share and offer support.”
In 2000, CWD held its first conference for 110 families who gathered for
camaraderie and fun. Today, the conferences have grown to become the most
amazing educational and support experiences for families who have kids with
diabetes. The Diabetes Research Institute and Foundation have been involved
since the very first year, and at the 2008 Friends for Life Annual Conference in
July, which attracted more than 3,000 people, the DRI’s Dr. Norma S. Kenyon
and Dr. Cherie Stabler gave informative presentations for both parents and kids.
What has quickly become the coffee shop of the 21st century is the online
social network, a place “where everybody knows your name” - or user name where you can go to connect with others, socialize and exchange ideas. And no,
parents, it’s not just for your teenagers! There’s a social network out there for
everyone: saving time in our busy lives, allowing us to meet others with similar
interests, and offering one-on-one contact as our own schedules permit.
Two very popular diabetes social networks are TuDiabetes.com, where users
write blog posts, exchange ideas in discussion forums, and share photos and
helpful videos, and Diabetestalkfest.com, which is dedicated to live scheduled
chats with medical professionals, scientists and nutritionists and also live
daily chats to help connect people with diabetes coast to coast. These sites
encourage users to discover new people and new possibilities; they turn
distant strangers into friends with a click of the mouse; and they provide
access to a variety of people with diabetes from around the globe.
Support Our Work While Doing Yours
Many companies encourage employees to support charitable organizations through workplace giving campaigns.
These gifts are tax deductible and can be made through a
payroll deduction program. Simply select the DRI Foundation
from your company’s charitable choices and encourage
your co-workers to do the same. If the Foundation is not
already an option, you can further assist by working with
us to determine how to go about being included.
For participants in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC),
our number is #11149.We are also listed under the Health 1st
America’s Charities Federation. The easiest way to find us is
in the alphabetical index at the back of your campaign
guide. If your company holds a United Way campaign, you
have the opportunity to contribute to the DRI Foundation
by utilizing the write-in feature. Please call 1-800-321-3437
or email [email protected] if you have any questions.
Be Entertained & Educated Online
In recognition of National Diabetes Awareness Month, the
DRI Foundation will run its first online webathon throughout
November to raise funds and awareness.Offering entertainment
as well as education on diabetes and the DRI, the webathon
will feature online auctions, play-for-the-cure tournaments,
healthy lifestyle segments, comedy acts, messages from
celebrities, and much more! Linda and Barry Gibb will serve
as International Hosts, and Larry the Cable Guy, Sugar Ray
Leonard, Roy Firestone, Lance Burton, Smokey Robinson, and
Bret Michaels have already signed on to lend their talent.
Tune in to www.DiabetesWebathon.com for updates!
Other great online resources are diabetes blogs, such as Amy Tenderich’s
DiabetesMine.com and Scott’s Web Log by Scott Strumello
(sstrumello.blogspot.com). A popular on-line interactive diabetes site, dLife.com
offers comprehensive information directed toward empowering those with
diabetes, their familiy members and other caretakers. These sites and others
offer personal accounts and life stories, different perspectives on the latest
tools, technologies and scientific research, information on variety of diabetes
management issues, plus the opportunity for readers to review and respond.
Most of all, online communities allow you to learn, connect, help, heal, inspire,
inform and relate. Don’t delay in getting involved. To find out about additional
online resources, visit www.diabetesresearch.org/links. To get connected to a
PEP Squad member, find the link on our homepage or call 1-800-321-3437.
9 |
LET ME COUNT
THE WAYS TO GIVE
There are so many different ways to
contribute to the Diabetes Research
Institute Foundation. Below is a short
list of easy ways to give and we have
additional ideas posted on our website.
Visit diabetesresearch.org/Foundation,
then click Ways to Give, Generous
Partners or Links.
Honor and Memory Gifts
Looking for a unique way to show that
you care? Keep the memory of loved
ones alive or honor someone special for
a birthday or milestone. The Foundation
will notify that individual or family
member and send you a confirmation of
your thoughtful gift. Call 1-800-321-3437
or visit the above web link.
Online Giving – At no cost to you!
The DRI will receive a donation
just from you doing the things you
do every day.
• Shop online at GiveBackAmerica.org
• Use GoodSearch.com as your
preferred online search engine
• Plan your wedding at
IDoFoundation.org
• Donate your car through
Cars4Charities.org
Generous Partners
The DRI Foundation has partnered
with multiple companies that offer
enjoyable products and donate a
portion of their sales to support
the DRI's cure-focused research.
• Drink VitaZest® if you love vitamin
and fruit enriched water –
drinkvitazest.com
• Rejuvenate at Canyon Ranch, Skana
or Miraval Resorts if you love spa
destination get aways –
[email protected]
• Order the Swingdicator to improve
your golf game – swingdicator.com
• Enjoy HoneyTree’s Sugar Free Imitation
Honey – honeytreehoney.com
Shown here with DRI Scientific Director
Camillo Ricordi, M.D., Kelli Klein (right) and
her mother, Marci, were impressed by their
tour of the DRI and are thrilled to support
the DRI with Dog Tags 4 Diabetes.
THE FUTURE
OF PHILANTHROPY
What does the future of philanthropy look like? Could it possibly resemble a boy band and
its fawning tween fans? In the case of one young philanthropist helping to forge the way
for her generation, it does!
Currently rampant among teenage girls nationwide, OJD is defined in the urban
dictionary as Obsessive Jonas Disorder, a frenzied fascination with everything relating
to pop-rock stars, the Jonas Brothers. For 16-year-old Kelli Klein, the affliction provided
the ideal market audience for the perfect fundraising opportunity, one which combines
the love of her favorite band with her desire to help cure one of its members.
A huge fan of the Jonas Brothers for about two years, Kelli has attended several of their
shows, keeping track of Kevin, Joe and Nick Jonas via the Internet in between. As she
watched the New Jersey siblings rise to superstardom, Kelli also witnessed OJD sweep
the nation…and a metaphorical light bulb turned on.
When the Jonas Brothers performed at the DRIF’s Carnival for a Cure in New York City in
March of 2007, Nick, the youngest brother, revealed that he has type 1 diabetes. Since
then, millions of fans all over the world have watched the video taken at the event. It
was in this way that Kelli learned about the DRI and realized her desire to help support
its work toward a cure. And when she noticed Nick wearing a medical ID tag and
realized that his fans would want to wear one in support of him, she put her
thoughts into action.
With a business mind beyond her years, the high school student excitedly described
her plan to her mother. They ordered samples of dog tags from various vendors, chose
one, and purchased 100 dog tags engraved with the words, "Support Diabetes, Support
Nick." Kelli then created MySpace and Facebook pages, which she named “Dog Tags 4
Diabetes.” Immediately, she began receiving orders for the dog tags and soon she was
thrilled to deliver her first check for $800 to the DRI Foundation. And as of now, Kelli’s
project has raised more than $6,500 for the DRI.
“I am so proud of how far Dog Tags 4 Diabetes has come, and I hope the success continues,” Kelli said. Referring to the Jonas Brothers’ title track from their upcoming album,
out August 12, she continued, “I strongly believe if we work together, Nick and the millions
of others dealing with diabetes will only have to wait A Little Bit Longer for a cure.”
If every kid was doing what Kelli is doing, we’d have a cure! This is the future of philanthropy.
JOIN US AT DIABETES 2.0
New Venue! New Format!
DIABETES 2.0
Harnessing New Technologies
in Research and Treatment
What’s next in diabetes research and treatment? What’s available now?
Is it hype – or hope?
The 7th New York Research Update will answer these questions and more on Saturday,
October 25, at the Marriott Marquis in New York City. For an agenda of the daylong
conference and to pre-register, visit www.diabetesresearch.org.
ENJOY HONEYTREE’S SUGAR FREE IMITATION HONEY AND
SUPPORT THE DRI
Most folks love the good, sweet taste of honey. Now, people with
diabetes and those looking to reduce their sugar intake can also enjoy
this delicious treat with HoneyTree's Sugar Free Imitation Honey. To
sweeten the deal, HoneyTree, Inc., a top quality honey supplier with
a 90-year history, donates a portion of product sales to the DRI.
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation and HoneyTree, Inc.,
recently announced this new partnership that indicates the honey
manufacturer’s commitment to supporting the cure-focused work
being conducted at the DRI. The Foundation logo will appear on the
label of HoneyTree’s Sugar Free Imitation Honey to help consumers
easily identify a great-tasting alternative.
1
IT ALL ADDS UP
“More and more adults – and parents – are taking a proactive role in
their family’s healthful habits and specifically nutrition. Small changes
in diet, such as reducing sugar intake, can make a huge impact, especially
for people with diabetes or who are at risk of developing diabetes,” said
Robert A. Pearlman, president and CEO of the Diabetes Research Institute
Foundation. “We are grateful for HoneyTree’s support of our mission to
cure diabetes and for their concern for all people affected by this disease.”
Consumers can find HoneyTree’s Sugar Free Imitation Honey and
other HoneyTree products in select grocery stores and drug stores
nationwide, or they can order directly from the company’s website,
www.honeytreehoney.com.
With its golden color, smooth honey-flavored taste and thick, flowing
consistency, HoneyTree’s Sugar Free Imitation Honey is the ultimate
honey substitute. It can be used in place of honey in recipes, as a topping for toast, breads and cereals, or as a sweetener in tea and coffee.
DIABETES DIPLOMATS DEMONSTRATE:
A sweet-tasting
substitute for those
who love honey.
“HoneyTree is pleased to have an opportunity to give back to the diabetic community. We are privileged to support a research focused organization such as the DRI Foundation in its efforts to find a cure for
diabetes,” said Bob Olney, HoneyTree’s president.
2
3
1. Sammy Schechter proudly presented DRIF’s Jill Shapiro Miller with a check, signed
by his entire 2nd grade class.
2. Shannon Painter (center) coordinated The Benefit in Chicago in honor of her
friend, Alyssa LeVine (right.) Also pictured is Alyssa’s husband, Cory LeVine.
3.(l-r) Lorraine, Carol, and Michal Nudelman plus Morton Blumberg, support the DRI
with hope of a cure for Ashley Blumberg.
As the prevalence of diabetes rises, so does the amount of people who have a connection to the disease. When these individuals act upon the
desire to “do something” for themselves or on behalf of their loved one with diabetes, then colossal results are achieved. Following are just a
few examples of Diabetes Diplomats of varying ages and geographic locations who are showing that it all adds up for the DRI.
Recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, 8-year-old Sammy Schechter
helped his parents, Beno and Rosa Schechter, produce a DVD of Beth
Am Day School’s 2nd Grade Chanukah Celebration Show, which he
offered to his classmates for a donation. Sammy was deeply touched
and amazed as he opened the envelopes and saw the amounts contributed by his classmates. Beating his goal of $1,000 by a landslide,
Sammy was excited to present “a big fat check” for $5,575.50 to the
DRI. In response to his father’s gentle warning that the money may
only last 15 minutes in the DRI's labs with such expensive equipment,
Sammy said,“Who knows…maybe just like in Chanukah, the miraclecure could be found in those 15 minutes and last for a life-time.”
While Sammy and his classmates were busy in Florida, another Diabetes
Diplomat, Shannon Painter, was hard at work in Illinois. In honor of her
friend, 27-year-old Alyssa LeVine, who was diagnosed with type 1 at age
6, Shannon coordinated The Benefit, held at Level nightclub in Chicago
on April 19. More than 200 guests attended the trendy event, sipping
cocktails and nibbling on sushi as they enjoyed music spun by popular
deejays. The evening peaked with a fabulous spring fashion show, featuring the work of top designers. Proceeds benefited the DRI, and thanks
to Shannon, awareness of the DRI reached additional Midwesterners.
Even further west, in Colorado, Carol Nudelman, along with her husband,
Morton Blumberg, and her father, 92-year-old Michal Nudelman, were
spreading the word of the DRI to another group of people. Motivated
by 18-year-old Ashley, Carol and Morty’s daughter who has been dealing with type 1 diabetes for seven years, they began a letter writing
campaign in 2002. Each year, the campaign has raised approximately
$20,000 for the DRI. While Carol initiates the effort, Morty helps her to
fine tune and personalize each letter, and they send them out to family
and friends across the country. Michal personalizes his own letters and
reaches out to his and his wife, Lorraine’s friends and family.“Just as
polio was eradicated in our lifetime, so can juvenile diabetes become
a historical footnote,” their letter expressed this year. As efforts across
the country are combined, it is clear that it all adds up when you are
an advocate of the DRI.
Please contact the DRI Foundation at 800-321-3437 if you would like
to become a Diabetes Diplomat to raise funds and/or awareness for
the DRI. You can also send an email to [email protected] or visit
www.diabetesdiplomats.com for more information.
11 |
ARMANI EXCHANGE SUPERMODEL
STEPS OUT FOR THE DRI
Proving that giving never goes out of style, supermodel Izabel Goulart, along with Armani Exchange,
raised $10,000 for the DRI in just two hours on May
3 in New York City. Starring in the Armani Exchange
(A/X) Spring 2008 advertising campaign, the Brazilian
beauty greeted her fans at the SoHo A/X store,
graciously autographing her photos and handing
out DRI information.
“I am here with all my love to raise money for the
Diabetes Research Institute,” Izabel said. “I am 100
percent positive that one day they’ll find the cure.”
DRI Foundation President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman
was on-site to present Izabel with a certificate of
appreciation for her support of and dedication to
the cause, one that is as close to her heart as it is
to so many others.
Supermodel Izabel Goulart,
new friend of the DRI.
“This is such an honor for me,” the 23-year-old
sensation said earnestly. “I have someone in my
family who suffers from diabetes.”
Izabel’s 7-year-old brother was diagnosed with
type 1 diabetes five years ago. Since then, she has
worked with hospitals in her native Brazil to raise
money to provide free insulin for diabetic children
in need. Upon hearing of the DRI, Izabel expressed
her belief that the message was a Godsend
because she sincerely wants to find a cure.
More than just an angel to the DRI, Izabel has
been a Victoria’s Secret “Angel” since 2005. She
has sashayed down the runway wearing duds by
top designers such as Bill Blass, Oscar de la Renta,
Valentino, Chanel, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and
Stella McCartney, among others. She also had her
television debut last year in an episode of
HBO’s Entourage.
The DRI looks forward to a lasting relationship
with Izabel Goulart, a woman whose beauty is not
just skin deep.
DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY, CRYSTAL BALL
More than 400 guests gathered at the Garden
City Hotel for the 10th anniversary of Long
Island’s premier DRIF event, the Crystal Ball.
According to Gala Committee Chairman
Charles Rizzo, the elegant affair, held on
May 3, raised $792,000.
The tremendous success of the event can be
attributed in part to the dedicated support
of the evening’s honorees, Jodi and Michael
Genatt, and the recipients of the Gillin Family Humanitarian Award, Michael’s parents,
Judy and Les Genatt. The family has taken
on the search for a cure as a personal mission
ever since Jodi and Michael’s 15-year-old son,
Zach, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
five years ago.
“Diabetes affects the entire family. It
changes your whole life,” said Jodi, personally
thanking everyone in the room for their
attendance and support.
“It’s going to take a facility like the Diabetes
Research Institute down in Miami to find a
cure for this disease. With the money we
raise here tonight, we will find a cure,”
added Michael.
During the dinner program, which was led
by WCBS-TV’s Dr. Max Gomez, DRI Associate
Director Dr. Norma Sue Kenyon explained
some of the research underway. She further
connected with the crowd by discussing her
personal sense of urgency as a scientist and
a mother of a teenager with type 1 diabetes.
Touched by her words, the audience responded with generous gifts during the
Fund-A-Grant portion of the program, including significant contributions from the
Future Leadership Foundation, Roberta and
Bruce Waller and Family, Martin Granowitz,
the Genatt Family and Genatt Associates,
Inc., and Joan and William Fishlinger.
Other top sponsors included Wright Risk
Management; Congdon, Flaherty, O’Callaghan,
Reid, Donlon, Travis & Fishlinger; The Weitz
Family Charitable Foundation/Weitz &
Luxenberg Law Offices; ACE INA Foundation;
AIG Insurance Companies; Kenneth and
Jane Hirsch and the Seaman Family
Foundation; and Rooms to Go Children’s
Fund. The Grand Ballroom was transformed
into a sophisticated supper club thanks to
Lawrence Scott Events, the producer and
underwriter of the evening's design and
decor. Thanks to the Kossoy, Auerbach and
Landow families, guests went home with
a variety of goodies, such as beautiful pashminas, limited edition frosted glass water
bottles handcrafted with Swarovski
Crystals, and Crystal Ball tote bags.
1
1. Honorees Michael and Jodi Genatt (left)
with their son, Zach, and Judy and Les Genatt,
Gillin Family Humanitarian Award recipients.
2. Gala Committee Chairman Charles Rizzo,
and his wife, Marie.
2
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS' VINCE WILFORK'S MANTRA:
ONE LIFE TO LIVE
Considered one of the finest defensive tackles in the NFL today,
New England Patriots’ Vince “Big Daddy”Wilfork is also a fine example
of a son who took his father’s words to heart. Vince’s philanthropic
actions, as well as the tattoo on his upper arm, reflect the mantra
of David Wilfork, Sr.: One Life to Live.
For more than half of his 26 years,Wilfork witnessed his father struggle
with complications of diabetes. In 2002, while he was attending
University of Miami, he sadly received news that his father and best
friend had lost this battle. And since then, Wilfork has bravely turned
his heartache into an ongoing fight for life.
“I am trying to help find a cure for diabetes so that maybe one day
I can prevent a son or daughter from losing their mother or father to
the disease,” Wilfork said.
Organized by his wife, Bianca, and supported by friends, family and
teammates, including Randy Moss, Ty Warren, Kevin Faulk, Santonio
Thomas, Pierre Woods, Lonnie Paxton, Logan Mankins and Ellis Hobbs,
Vince Wilfork’s 5th Annual Draft Day Fundraiser was held on March 15
at PiNZ in Milford, MA. More than 800 fans from throughout New
England and across the Eastern Seaboard attended the party, eagerly
anticipating the chance to interact with their favorite nose tackle
while watching the draft on three gigantic projection screens and a
multitude of televisions. Guests were treated to professional draft
Vince and Bianca Wilfork raised more than $100,000 for the
DRI with their 5th Annual Draft Day fundraiser.
commentary, while enjoying food, drinks and raffles, plus live and
silent auctions. PlayStation’s Madden and bowling tournaments kept
the fun rolling.
Proceeds exceeded $100,000 this year, more than double from last
year and ten times the amount the first event raised, when Vince himself donated half of the $12,000 proceeds. The DRI is grateful to call
Vince and Bianca Wilfork, along with their son, D’Aundre, and daughter, Destiny, friends and partners in the quest to cure diabetes. Don’t
miss out on this wonderful family’s 6th Draft Day fundraiser, which is
certain to be even bigger and better than ever!
Don Strock Diabetes Classic
CELEBRATES A
SILVER ANNIVERSARY
Presented by Miami Seaquarium and supported
largely by the produce industry, the Don Strock
Diabetes Classic attracted 175 golfers to Miccosukee
Golf and Country Club on May 14, raising more
than $175,000. In honor of the 25th annual tournament, fellow current and former pro-athletes
Dan Marino, Dwight Stephenson, Nat Moore, Jim
Jensen, Larry Little, Don McNeal, George Mira, Kim
Bokamper, Harvey Clayton, Tony Fiorentino, Eddie
Hill, Quadtrine Hill, Ricky Jackson, John Harris, and
Twan Russell joined Don Strock on the course.
“Dan Marino was a rookie the first year we had
this tournament,” Strock quipped. “That gives you
some perspective on just how long we’ve been
doing this.”
After enjoying perfect weather on the course,
the spirited group tackled cocktails and dinner,
plus live and silent auctions. When seven special
guests took the stage, silence overcame the
noisy dining room.
“My little brother is a hero,” said Emilio Lamar, Jr.,
age 13, speaking of 11-year-old Felipe, who has type
1 diabetes. “He has to be much more responsible
than other kids. And he never complains.”
With maturity beyond their nine years, Brooke
Miller displayed the bulky diabetes-related contents
of her purse and Hunter Cope explained how her
diabetes dog and constant companion, Diva, senses
when her blood sugar is too high or too low and
then alerts one of her family members. Brooke’s
mother, Lynette Miller, shared further examples
of how the disease affects the whole family.
Matthew Sanchez, Ellie Tamminga and Armand
Guim also addressed the teary-eyed crowd, and
the universal hope of all children with diabetes
was summed up in ten words:“My dream is just
to be a regular kid again.”
“You’ve just heard firsthand the reason for this
tournament,” said Barbara Singer of the DRI
Foundation. “With our help, these kids can look
forward to a future free from diabetes.”
Bruce Fishbein, event chairman since inception,
then announced with pride that the Classic’s
cumulative proceeds have now surpassed the
$2 million mark.
Generous sponsors: Back (l-r)
Tournament Host Don Strock,
Chairman Bruce Fishbein of The
Produce Connection, Terry Willie
of Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of
Florida, name unavailable. Middle
(l-r) John Spicei of Taylor Farms of
Florida, Jim McGrath of Outback
Steakhouse, Andrew Hertz of
Miami Seaquarium, a representative
of Tropical Shipping, Mike DeGiuseppi
of Minuteman Press of Boca Raton,
John Marini of Heineken USA,
Floyd Seskin of Uro-Club, Jeff Pfaff
of Top Tomato, Adam Homan of
Six L’s Packing Company, and
Morris Corbitt of The Produce
Connection. Front (l-r) Doug
Tannehill of C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Paula Pippin of Coca-Cola,
Robert Piper and Jerry Share of
Sheds Plus, and Bruce Schumin of
M & R Produce Distributors. Not
pictured: American Fruit & Produce, Miccosukee Championship,
Florida Mushroom, Freedom Fresh,
Sierra Produce, The Oppenheimer
Group, Capital Produce Distributors, Crystal Springs and Warren
Henry Automobiles.
13 |
EVENTS
LONG ISLAND REGION
Springing Forward
More than 350 women attended Spring into Fashion, presented by Roberta and
Bruce Waller and Family, at the Carlyle on the Green in Bethpage State Park. A decade
ago, dear friends Addy Fritzhand (2nd from left) and Miriam Marlowe-Shiff (right)
started the event, and this year they were honored for their dedication as co-chairs.
The elegant luncheon was followed by a fashion show featuring the spring collection,
provided by Marshs. Honorary Chairman Senator Craig Johnson and DRI’s Gary
Kleiman were on-hand to congratulate current Co-chairs Doreen Peykar (2nd from
right) and Rina Weinbrom (left) on a successful event, which raised $214,000.
In Heart & Mind
The family of Helaine Shari White continues to celebrate her incredible love
of life and powerful spirit with fundraising events that focus on laughter, fun
and family. Her parents, Rhoda and Donald White, and her two sisters and brothersin-law, Peter and Hillari Boritz and Renee and Ron Spiegel, organized the eighth
annual Lanie's Lanes at the East Meadow Bowling Lanes. Keeping Lanie in heart
and mind, the family raised more than $28,000 for the DRI this year. Pictured
bowling are Marti Motherway and his granddaughter, Caitlyn Bella.
EMPIRE BALL
Another Empire Record
The 2007 Empire Ball, which was chaired by Peter DiCapua, was held at the Grand Hyatt
Hotel and raised more than $1.4 million. Sponsored by the Real Estate Division of the DRI,
the event had another record breaking year, attracting more than 1,200 guests. The gala
honored Edward Piccinich (center), executive vice president of SL Green Realty Corp, who
received the prestigious Empire Ball Award from last year’s honoree, David Arena (left)
of Grubb & Ellis. (Also pictured is Marc Holliday, CEO of SL Green Realty Corp.) The Camillo
Ricordi Humanitarian Award was presented to John Catsimatidis, chairman and CEO of Red
Apple Group, Gristedes Supermarkets, by last year's recipient, Arthur Skelskie of Moody’s
Corporation. The annual DRI film was emceed by Patti LaBelle, and the evening’s entertainment was provided by the Ric Mango orchestra and the Mid Life Crisis band.
What’s Cooking?
Glen Cove Mayor Ralph V. Suozzi and Judge Richard McCord
were among the guests of the fifth annual Cooking for a Cure
dinner prepared by Page One Restaurant’s co-owner and chef,
Jeanine DiMenna. Held at and sponsored in part by Page One,
this exquisite dinner raised $45,000, which included a generous $25,000 grant secured by Senator Carl Marcellino. The
event honored Jean Corrigan RN, CDE (2nd from left), director
of the Pediatric Diabetes Program at Winthrop University
Hospital. Also pictured (l-r) are Co-chair and DRIF Long Island
Regional Board member Delia Whitton, Long Island Regional Board Chairman Allan L. Pashcow, Co-chair Mary Hall, and Long Island
Regional Director Anthony E. Childs.
Shooting for a Cure
Featuring an exciting day of clay shooting, the third annual Sportsmen for Charity (SFC)
event was held on April 18 at the Pawling Mountain Club in Pawling, NY. Event Chairman
Charles F. Guigno and SFC President Edward A. Rytter thanked approximately 80 guests
for their participation during the awards program. Guigno made special mention of his
connection to diabetes, as he displayed confidence in the DRI. Guigno is pictured (left)
with his grandsons, 10-year-old Joseph, and 17-year-old Michael (right), who was
diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 11.
UNION EVENTS
Labor of Love
In sunny San Diego, the 23rd annual Labor of Love Golf Tournament brought together nearly 200 members, friends and business associates of the labor unions at Steele Canyon, one of Southern California’s
finest golf clubs. Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority sponsored a welcome cocktail party Friday
evening at Hotel Del Coronado, and the dinner program Saturday evening was held at this gorgeous
Victorian landmark on Coronado Island. Special thanks were extended to Harbaugh Hotels for donating
the crystal door prizes once again and to Harrah’s Entertainment for making a $50,000 donation to the
event, which raised nearly $200,000. Hosted each year by the Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD) of the AFL-CIO and led by President Mark H. Ayers, Labor of Love is an integral part of the
Blueprint for Cure campaign, which to date, has raised approximately $40 million for the DRI. Pictured
are BCTD Secretary/Treasurer Sean McGarvey (left) and BCTD President Emeritus Ed Sullivan.
15 |
EVENTS
NORTHEAST REGION
Dare to Dream
DRIF’s Northeast region proudly held its third annual D.R.E.a.M.S. in the City fundraiser on May 14 at
Cipriani 23rd Street in New York City. The glamorous and sophisticated event attracted nearly 600 people
and generated close to $1 million. Co-chaired by Samantha Shanken, Bonnie Inserra and Risa Pulver, vice
chairman for events and public relations of DRIF’s Northeast Board, the unforgettable soirée boasted an
Art Deco theme. It featured classic cocktails, plus a delicious dinner paired with highly-rated wines, and
luxury silent and live auctions. During the dinner program, Michael Strahan of the Super Bowl-winning
New York Giants presented Honoree Thomas P. Silver of Orda Management Corporation with the
Dare to Dream award. Pictured with Silver is his wife, Natasha Silver, Honorary Chair.
Riedel Shows it’s All in the Glass
A select group of guests was treated to a unique wine-tasting experience at the beautiful
Riedel glass showroom on New York City’s Madison Avenue. Tenth-generation glassmaker
Georg Riedel conducted an interactive glass appreciation seminar, during which guests
tasted wine in glasses designed for specific types of wine. At the end of the evening, each
guest received the set of four beautiful and unique glasses, courtesy of Northeast Board
Chairman Ricardo Salmon and his wife, Leslie Dezer, and Northeast Board member Samantha
Shanken (center). Attendees were treated to a discussion on advances in diabetes research
by DRI’s Dr. Norma S. Kenyon (far right). Also pictured are (l-r) DRI Foundation’s National
Board Chairman Emeritus Marc Goodman, National Board Chairman Thomas D. Stern,
and President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman.
Katya at Carnegie
Making history as the first female solo pianist to grace the stage of Carnegie Hall for a record ten
breathtaking performances, Katya Grineva (pictured) dedicated her tenth performance on April 27 to
children afflicted with type 1 diabetes. More than 1,000 concert-goers enjoyed the evening, which featured
the works of Chopin, Debussy, Albeniz, and Ravel. Thanks to the generosity of Platinum Sponsor Monster
Worldwide and Gold Sponsor Novo Nordisk, $20,000 of the proceeds from the concert benefited the
DRI. World renowned, Katya has shared her musical gift with presidents, dignitaries and the poorest
citizens in countries throughout the world.
FLORIDA REGION
A Decade of Decadence
At the tenth anniversary of Pleasures of the Palate, hosts Sue (pictured) and Doug Gallagher welcomed
approximately 120 fellow bon vivants to the event’s latest venue, Emeril’s Miami Beach. Guests were
greeted with glasses of bubbling champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres before sitting down to a fourcourse dinner paired with the appropriate wines to enhance flavors. Renowned harpist Roberto Perera
entertained guests throughout the evening affair, which was presented by Wine Spectator. Exclusive
bottles of wine from the cellars of South Florida’s elite collectors were highlighted in the incredible
live and silent auctions. Though the wines always take center stage at this event, sharing the spotlight
were the perfectly prepared courses served by the impeccable staff at Emeril’s, led by Bryan Kazee
(left) and Chef Brandon Benach (right).
Third Time’s a Charm
Held at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York City, the third annual Carnival for a Cure raised
more than $500,000 for the DRI while supplying nearly 1,000 guests with a fun, family-friendly
afternoon. Party-goers enjoyed various foods and the “way cool” tunes of DJ Scott Zuckerman,
plus games and activities galore. Some laughed with stilt walkers, clowns, balloon artists and
face painters, while others raced sports cars and dunked hoops. All were delighted with fantastic
prizes. Co-chairs Robert and Joanne Schenker are pictured with their sons, Michael (center)
and Jamie (right).
CALIFORNIA REGION
Fore!
Baseball Great Don Baylor (2nd from left) and Emmy® Award Winning Sports Journalist
Roy Firestone joined 200 golf enthusiasts at the Diabetes Research Institute Golf Classic,
which was held on May 12 at the El Caballero Country Club in Tarzana. The fourth annual
event featured an afternoon of golf followed by auctions and a dinner program that
honored Charles Delle Donne (2nd from right), a seasoned veteran of the investment
management business. According to Co-chairs Ken Bernstein (left) and Bob Bills (right),
the tournament raised $232,000 for the cure-focused work of the DRI.
ONLINE AUCTION
Priceless Gift for Son with Diabetes
As the mother of a child with type 1 diabetes, bestselling author Brenda Novak used the creativity and vision
she calls upon regularly as a writer to create the 4th Annual Online Auction to Benefit Diabetes Research. Held
throughout the month of May in honor of Mother's Day, the auction offered a unique array of items, such as
the chance to appear as a character in Novak’s next novel, personal meetings and mentoring from top-notch,
celebrated authors, autographed books, evaluation opportunities with some of the most powerful and wellconnected agents and editors in publishing, and possibly face-to-face interaction with these A-list publishing
industry giants. This year, Novak donated approximately $70,000 to the DRI, the newest beneficiary. Novak
is pictured with her 11-year-old son, Thad, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 5.
A Family’s Commitment
The fourth annual DRI Golf and Tennis Classic boasted outstanding weather and equally sunny,
hopeful spirits at Miami Beach’s prestigious La Gorce Country Club on Monday, January 28. More
than 300 friends of Chairfamily Javier (far left), Andria (3rd from left), Matthew (not pictured),
Nicole (right) and Andrew (2nd from left) Holtz, turned out to show their support and encouragement for the family’s ongoing efforts to help the DRI find a cure for their youngest member,
Andrew. Ever since he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes seven years ago at age 7, it has become
the personal mission of everyone in the Holtz household to do anything possible to eliminate
the disease. In accordance with their great efforts, each event, including this one, has raised
more than $350,000.
17 |
EVENTS
FLORIDA REGION
Dance, Romance and Family Ties
In its 34th year, the Love and Hope Ball truly became a family
affair for International Chairmen Linda and Barry Gibb (center)
when their children, (l-r) Ashley and Therese, Travis and Stacey,
Michael, Ali, and Stephen and Gloria Gibb, were named the
first Young Society of Love and Hope Honorees. Other VIPs
graciously thanked by Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman
were: Humanitarian Honoree Sherman Simon, Honorary
Chairmen Serena and Leon Simkins, Love Honoree Shirley
Harris and Hope Honorees Carmen Alexander Printup and Michael Alexander. Golden Beach Police Chief Jim Skinner then presented
the key to the town of Golden Beach to Executive Chairmen Sandra and Sid Levy. Themed An Evening of Dance and Romance, the
black-tie gala, which hosted more than 500 guests, was held at the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa on February 16. In combination
with the Love and Hope Preview Party in November, the fabulous evening once again raised more than $1 million.
Ladies Shuffle and Shop
More than 220 women gathered to support diabetes research while enjoying an afternoon of card games
and boutique shopping at Polo Club of Boca Raton, for the Ninth Annual A Gift of Love…A Gift of Hope
Luncheon. Once again led by Mariana Sherman (right) and Renee Aronin (left), the ladies of the Palm Beach
County Auxiliary organized the event, which raised more than $30,000, their largest amount yet, for the DRI.
If you would like to help out with or attend the next A Gift of Love...A Gift of Hope event, please call the DRI
Foundation at 800-321-3437.
Stepping Up to a Cause
Approximately 1,000 students, teachers, and parents, walked, ran, biked and skated to the finish
line of the Seven-mile Walk-a-thon. The pinnacle of DRI Week, a week-long campaign that allows
participants to organize projects of their choice to create awareness and raise funds for the DRI,
the walkathon was held at C.B. Smith Park in Pembroke Pines. This year, it was organized by Charles
W. Flanagan High School senior Matt Caesar, who oversaw the work of not only the members of his
own National Honor Society (NHS) chapter, of which he serves as the Parliamentarian, but also of
all the other participating NHS and National Junior Honor Societies in Broward County. Pictured
with Caesar (2nd from left) are classmates (l-r) Jack Garcia, Tony Guadamuz and Keith Brown. DRI
Week was also recognized on February 18 with a Majic 102.7 live broadcast with Vance Phillips at
the Rand Eye Institute in Pompano Beach.
D'Vine Divas Dish it Out for Diabetes
Serving as a kick-off for the 2008 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival and celebrating the
talents of some extraordinary women, the D’Vine Divas dinner was held at the Biltmore Hotel. Female chefs
from coast to coast prepared each course, which were paired with incredible wines, courtesy of Southern
Wine & Spirits. This fun, feminine and flavorful event also featured live and silent auctions, which benefited the DRI. Pictured are Hosts Samantha Shanken (center) of Wine Spectator and Master Sommelier
Laura DePasquale (right), with Yvonne Robert of the Biltmore Hotel Cellar Club.
Welcome to the Jungle
Jungle Safari intertwined elegance and exuberance to create one of the most memorable events of
the area’s famed equestrian season. This decidedly-different gala, held at the International Polo Club
Palm Beach on March 1, was topped off with a safari-themed ambience. Aside from the human
guest list, which surpassed 300, partygoers were delighted to spend time with a white tiger, a
Bengal tiger and a black leopard, as well as a young kangaroo, ring-tailed lemurs and a tiger cub.
Chairmen Joe and Ashley Maguire (pictured) were pleased to announce that the event raised more
than $225,000. They offered special recognition to their sponsors and committee, as well as to Honorary
Chairmen Joan and Lou Jacobs, Chairmen Emeritus Karen and Bob Cavanagh and Vice Chairmen
Debbie and Mark Plaxen, Ginny and Paul Farber, and Marie and Michael Bianchini; and Presenting
Sponsor U.S. Trust - Bank of America Private Wealth Management.
Seeing Stars
On the heels of another successful fundraising season, members of Love and Hope were
thanked for their tireless dedication and support at the committee’s season-closing event, the
Thank You Luncheon, held at Miami’s Westview Country Club. Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman
(left) and Executive Chairman Sandra Levy (right) led the program. The coveted Star Award,
which is bestowed annually to the person who stands out among the extremely dedicated
committee, was then presented to Jill Rosenhaus (2nd from right). The lovely afternoon closed
with a serenade by Australian singer and committee member Noeleen Batley Stewart, friend
of International Chairmen Linda (2nd from left) and Barry Gibb.
Extinguishing Diabetes
On March 29, South Florida firefighters took a break from fighting fires to help extinguish another menace to
their communities, type 1 diabetes. Consisting of firefighters from several local municipalities, the self-named
hockey team, East Coast Bomberos, took on Florida’s West Coast Firefighters in an afternoon amateur hockey
game played at the Bank Atlantic Center. According to Dade County Firefighter Bob Maloney, event coordinator,
the effort raised more than $12,000 for the DRI. Maloney is shown with his niece, Madison Armstrong, and his
nephew, Ryan Maloney, both of whom have type 1 diabetes and were his inspiration for the fundraiser.
Fashionably Philanthropic
The Young Society of Love and Hope, in conjunction with Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour, Just Cavalli,
and Ocean Drive magazine, hosted a hip fundraiser on April 17 at the prestigious Rubell Family Collection
in Miami. Throughout an extended cocktail hour, guests indulged in the delectable hors d’oeuvres of
Table 8 South Beach and assorted spirits compliments of Roberto Cavalli Vodka and Southern Wine
and Spirits. Randi Caster shared her experiences as a DRI islet transplant patient. Then, the runway
came to life, and models captivated the audience with a presentation of the Just Cavalli 2008 Fall
Collection. Members of the Young Society of Love and Hope include: Therese Gibb, Jamie Jo Harris,
Melanie Herman, Andrea Kasparoff, Erin Newberg, Michelle Rubell, and Nicole Simkins. Shown with
DRIF President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman are Rubell (left) and VP and GM of Saks Fifth Avenue
Bal Harbour Deborah Slack (right).
19 |
For information on the events or to make reservations,
please call one of the DRI Foundation offices listed below.
CALENDAR
Rod Gilbert DRI Golf Classic
August 4, 2008 / LONG ISLAND
To be held simultaneously at two
locations, Pine Hollow Country
Club and Muttontown Country
Club, this event includes an
afternoon of golf followed by an
awards dinner and silent auction.
Phil Peterson’s Key West Poker Run
September 19-21, 2008 / FLORIDA
Phil Peterson will once again host
his annual motorcycle run that
starts in Miami and finishes in Key
West for South Florida’s biggest
biker party weekend of the year.
Kids Party for a Cure
October 19, 2008 / LONG ISLAND
This afternoon of fun for the
entire family at Dave and Buster’s
will feature video games, inflatables,
face painting and more followed by
dinner and a silent auction.
DRIfocus
New York Research Update
October 25, 2008 / NEW YORK
This day-long conference at the
Marriott Marquis will feature
scientific presentations and
interactive sessions.
Stand Up for a Cure
October 26, 2008 / CALIFORNIA
Drew Carey and the Improv AllStars will bring down the house
during another hilarious night, to
be held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. This
event includes a cocktail
reception, dinner, live and silent
auctions and fabulous prize
drawings.
Diabetes Research Institute
Harold Kart Golf Classic
November 17, 2008 / FLORIDA
An afternoon of golf followed by
a cocktail reception and awards
dinner will take place at Boca
West Country Club.
Love and Hope Preview Party
November 19, 2008 / FLORIDA
In its 35th year, this fabulous dinner
reception, which is often referred
to as “the heart of Love and Hope,”
will officially kick off the group’s
fundraising season at the
Diplomat Country Club.
Kids Party for a Cure
November 23, 2008 / FLORIDA
To be held at the Miami Hilton
Downtown, this fun family event
themed Around the World will
feature exciting activities, live
entertainment, food, a silent
auction, raffles and more.
Encore! A Cure!
January 18, 2009 / FLORIDA
Attendees will experience a special
showing of the World Premier of
Miami Bombshells,The Musical, at
Actors Playhouse on the Miracle Mile
in Coral Gables after enjoying a light
dinner, wine reception and auction.
DRI Golf & Tennis Classic
January 26, 2009 / FLORIDA
An afternoon of golf and tennis
tournaments at La Gorce Country
Club in Miami Beach will be followed by a cocktail reception and
awards dinner.
Love and Hope Ball
February 7, 2009 / FLORIDA
To be held at the Westin Diplomat
Resort & Spa in Hollywood, this
extraordinary affair is certain to
delight its guests while commemorating 35 years of success
A Gift of Love...A Gift of Hope
February 16, 2009 / FLORIDA
Organized by the ladies of the
Palm Beach Auxiliary, this tenth
annual event will feature a delightful
lunch, a unique boutique filled
with fashionable items, a raffle,
and an afternoon of card-playing
at The Polo Club in Boca Raton.
is a publication of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation.
Summer 2008 / Volume 36, Issue 1
Staff
Lori Weintraub, APR
Lauren Schreier
Natasha Norris
Laurie Cummings
Contributors
Jeanne Antol Krull
Erica Banyon
Gary Kleiman
Alegre Levy
Jill Salter
Jill Shapiro Miller
Mitra Zehtab, M.D.
Design
Franz Franc Design Group Inc.
DRIfocus
Photography
Andre Chow
Charles Eshelman
Fifth Avenue Digital
Orlando Garcia
Dennis Goldensohn
Marc Levine
Tony Lopez
Lucien Capehart Photography
Paul Lester Photography
Patty Daniels Town & Country Studio
Peter Richardson
Sarah Merians Photography & Co.
John Seberg
Jon Simon
Von Kantor Photography & Design
Claude Zick
Diabetes Research Institute
National Foundation Office
200 South Park Road
Suite 100
Hollywood, FL 33021
www.diabetesresearch.org
address service requested
The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation supports the Diabetes Research Institute at the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine,
whose mission is to develop and rapidly apply the most promising research to treat and cure those now living with diabetes. To obtain additional
information or request copies of DRIfocus, please call (800) 321-3437 or e-mail [email protected], or visit www.diabetesresearch.org.
DIABETES RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOUNDATION
National Office
200 South Park Road, Suite 100
Hollywood, FL 33021
Phone: (954) 964-4040
Fax: (954) 964-7036
[email protected]
Northeast Regional Office
381 Park Avenue South, Suite 1118
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 888-2217
Fax: (212) 888-2219
[email protected]
Long Island Regional Office
410 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 201
Jericho, NY 11753
Phone: (516) 822-1700
Fax: (516) 822-3570
[email protected]
California Regional Office
6624 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Phone: (323) 857-0080
Fax: (323) 857-1856
[email protected]
Non-Profit Org.
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PAID
Diabetes Research
Institute Foundation