Research update meeting on Type 1 diabetes set March 19 in Lewes

With support from local residents, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation will provide a research update on Type 1 diabetes during a meeting from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 19, at the Lewes Yacht Club, 2701 Cedar St., Lewes.

Randy Burton of Lewes, who was diagnosed with late-onset Type 1 diabetes when he was 49 years old, said technological advances in treatment and monitoring of the disease are advancing quickly. “There needs to be more awareness in the strides that are being made. Our goal is to demonstrate these advances and reach deeper into our local community to support those affected by Type 1 diabetes,” he said.

Burton is a living example. He wears a state-of-the art continuous glucose monitor that has replaced the finger-prick blood tests that diabetics must do several times a day. “This is first-generation technology that I was made aware of because I have chosen to educate myself and get involved,” he said. “It's available to everyone.”

Burton said the foundation was started to assist families with children suffering from diabetes, but has become the leader in research and research funding.

Nearly 106,000, or 13 percent, of Delawareans suffer from diabetes, an increase of 8 percent over the past 25 years. Each year, 6,000 Delaware residents are diagnosed with diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Phone Burton at 302-245-1439 or the foundation at 302-888-1117 for more information or to register for the free event.

The event is hosted by Riki and Randy Burton, Ali and Matt DiSabatino, Ann Marie and Marie Townshend, Marie and Gene DiPrinzo, and Kim Blanch.