“The need is actually greater now than ever,” he said.
Diabetes increases the risk of serious illness and death from Covid-19. Related amputations have increased during the pandemic. Many with the disease gained weight. Some who had lost their jobs worried about paying for insulin and keeping food on the family table.
The hinterland ADA won $ 1 million for diabetes research and education last summer, successfully campaigned for New York State to limit insulin co-pays to no more than $ 100 a month, and went online with his popular Camp Aspire Summer Camp and Project Power After-. School programs for children with and at risk of diabetes.
“We’re making the best of it and I’m really proud of everyone involved,” said Collins. “With the Tour de Cure, we focused on the journey, not necessarily on the destination this year.”
Clarence’s Jim and Janice Horbowicz were fully vaccinated against Covid-19 in early March but have only recently felt comfortable enough to hang out with others. They have limited contact with others who they know have been vaccinated.
Scott Scanlon / Buffalo News
The national ADA fundraiser kicked off 30 years ago in Buffalo this summer. Clarence’s Jim Horbowicz, then Vice President of M&T Bank and now retired, led the inaugural drive. He and his wife Janice have been key fundraisers and volunteers ever since.
Horbowicz was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes almost 55 years ago. The club and its programs have taught him and his wife Janice how to cook and eat healthier, exercise more efficiently, and monitor blood sugar more effectively.
