Get involved! IDF’s World Diabetes Day

Here at diaTribe, we are constantly inspired by the huge number of organizations working to improve the lives of people with diabetes. On November 14, the IDF will host World Diabetes Day in more than 160 countries worldwide. The date marks the birthday of Frederick Banting, who first discovered insulin in 1922 along with Charles Best. A core part of World Diabetes Day involves lighting up monuments blue – the color of IDF’s blue circle, the global symbol for diabetes. In 2010 alone, over 900 monuments and buildings in 84 countries were lit to raise awareness of diabetes, including the Metreon right here in San Francisco (see New Now Next in diaTribe #27). For those in the San Francisco Bay Area, please join diaTribe at this year’s World Diabetes Day on November 14 at 5:30 pm in a blue-lit Union Square. Attendees will attempt a Guinness World Record for the largest hula hooping activity ever (114 people at one time swirling their hips on blue hoops)! The event will also include music, inspirational talks, refreshments, a diabetes resource fair, and more. To sign up and to receive more information, visit their website. To learn more about World Diabetes Day in general, including events in your area and how to light up a monument, visit IDF’s website at http://www.idf.org/worlddiabetesday. --AB