A Diabetes Fundraising Event day will be held on the 26th June 2009 in memory of Frank Smith

Since 1967 the Diabetes Federation of Ireland has been dedicated to helping people with diabetes. Through its network of support branches throughout the country, people who have an interest in diabetes are dedicated to sourcing and sharing information on diabetes and related matters.

Diabetes affects people from all walks of life, from the very young to the very old and is now considered an epidemic by the World Health Organisation. In Ireland, it is estimated that there are 200,000 people with diabetes with many unaware. The majority of these people will only be diagnosed through an acute medical event of the complications of long term untreated hyperglycaemia. A further 200,000 people have impaired glucose tolerance or “pre-diabetes” of which 40% will develop diabetes in the next 5 years if lifestyle changes are not made.

Diabetes Mellitus, or just diabetes as it is more commonly known, occurs when the sugar (glucose) level in the blood is too high.  This happens when the body is not burning up carbohydrates properly due to a defect in the pancreas, the gland that produces insulin.  Insulin is the hormone which keeps blood sugar levels within the normal healthy range.  Diabetes may be present either when no insulin is made or when insulin is made but not working properly.

The Diabetes Federation of Ireland provides a vast range of services which include support for children and parents with diabetes via the Sweetpea Kidz Club, Children and adolescent adventure activities, Family weekends and parent support groups. Advocacy and liaison with clinics, services, the HSE and the Department of Health and Children, National and local diabetes awareness campaigns & Health Promotion initiatives including diabetes screening around the country.

To do our part in raising funds and awareness in the Youghal area a coffee morning will take place in Cumann Na Daoine, 4 Catherine Street Youghal from 10am to 1pm, it’s only  €3 for Tea/Coffee Cake with a Diabetic screening included if you wish to avail of this service.  Diabetic Screening will continue from 2pm to 4pm at Brookes Supervalu Youghal free of charge.

This will be followed on Friday evening by an 80’s Disco at 9.30pm with optional fancy dress at the Youghal GAA Club. DJ’s on the night are Mick Sheehan & Ger O’Driscoll. Tickets for this worthy cause are only €10 and will be on sale on the door, they are available at Suil Eile 125 North Main St. Youghal and are also available from Mags on 087-2032037 or Yvonne 086-3708006 who you can also contact for any other information on this event.

All proceeds raised will go directly to the Cork Branch of the Diabetics Federation of Ireland.