American Diabetes Month

There are many things to look forward to in the upcoming weeks: crisp, cool mornings, the beautiful transformation of leaves into bright oranges and yellows, and the celebration of Thanksgiving with our loved ones.  November also officially marks American Diabetes Month- a time to educate our families and friends about a disease that is affecting nearly 26 million Americans. 

The devastating effects of diabetes continue to plague our communities.  Recent reports put 79 million Americans at risk for developing type 2 diabetes in their lifetime.  And with a death toll that takes more lives than AIDS and breast cancer combined, it is past time we begin to acknowledge the real effects this disease is having on our society. 

The American Diabetes Association is a national advocacy organization that is committed to providing support and services to those affected with diabetes, educational campaigns on ways to prevent the disease as well as funding research to find a cure.  Local events are being held in November across the country to raise awareness and bring attention to this potentially life threatening disease. 

I encourage everyone to visit the American Diabetes Associations website to learn more about ways to deal with and prevent this disease.  For those who are struggling with diabetes, there are resources available to help you live your life as a diabetic as painless as possible.  Below are links to both the national American Diabetes Association website as well as the local Chicago Chapter, with resources and local events in the Chicagoland area celebrating American Diabetes Month. 

American Diabetes Association

Chicago Chapter of the American Diabetes Association