May 7, 2004 -- Brian is swimming handcuffed in memory of his grandfather who developed diabetes and lost both his legs to the disease. Brian is swimming to raise money and public awareness in the fight against diabetes.

Diabetes is a chronic disease and a silent killer. 17 million Americans have diabetes and more than 1,000,000 are newly diagnosed each year. Diabetes is the nation's fifth deadliest disease, killing almost 280,000 people annually. In 2002, diabetes cost the United States $132 billion, up from $98 billion in 1997. A major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, diabetes is also the leading cause of blindness, kidney failure and amputations.

"We've seen a dramatic increase in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the last decade, and we need more resources in the fight against this often preventable disease," said Terrance Gregg, Chair, American Diabetes Association Research Foundation.

The American Diabetes Association is the nation's premier voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the Association has offices in every region of the country, providing services to hundreds of communities. The Association's commitment to research is reflected through its scientific meetings; education and provider recognition programs; and its Research Foundation and Nationwide Research Program, which fund breakthrough studies looking into the cure, prevention, and treatment of diabetes and its complications. For more information, please visit www.diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383). Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

Brian Friedman is the founder of Training on the Beach an outdoor fitness company offering group and one on one fitness training.




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