Make this summer count. Lead the diabetes summer surge in your community!

Canadian Diabetes Association launches coast-to-coast movement to raise funds in support of people living with diabetes

TORONTO, May 13 /CNW/ - With the weather warming up and summer planning underway, the Canadian Diabetes Association has launched the second annual Diabetes Summer Surge movement to help lead the fight against diabetes across Canada.

Today, more than 3 million Canadians are living with diabetes and a further 6 million Canadians have prediabetes. Each and every day, another 480 Canadians are diagnosed with the disease. In fact, this summer alone, more than 43,000 Canadians will be diagnosed with diabetes and may see their life expectancy reduced by as much as 15 years.

The Diabetes Summer Surge is an opportunity for individuals to take action in their community by hosting a fundraising event (real or virtual), supporting an existing event or making a personal donation all while spreading the word to friends and family.

"Last year, through the generous support of individuals across Canada more than $600,000 was raised through the Diabetes Summer Surge," said Anna Kennedy, Interim President & CEO, Canadian Diabetes Association. "We are excited to launch this movement again this year and look forward to hearing about the innovative and creative activities taking place across Canada in support of those living with diabetes. We encourage everyone to make this summer count by raising awareness, raising money and having fun!"

Individuals have until August 15 to add the surge to their summer plans and the chance to win some great prizes. Get started at diabetessummersurge.ca

The funds raised from the Diabetes Summer Surge will go towards supporting leading-edge research, services, and essential programs to help the millions of Canadians who are living with or affected by diabetes.

The 2010 Diabetes Summer Surge is sponsored by Air Canada, Ocean Spray, ClubLink and Dainty Foods.

About the Canadian Diabetes Association

Across the country, the Canadian Diabetes Association is leading the fight against diabetes by helping people with diabetes live healthy lives while we work to find a cure. We are supported in our efforts by a community-based network of volunteers, employees, healthcare professionals, researchers and partners. By providing education and services, advocating on behalf of people with diabetes, supporting research and translating research into practical applications - we are delivering on our mission. Visit diabetes.ca for more information.

For further information: Randi Garcha, Manager, National Media Relations & External Communications, Canadian Diabetes Association, Tel: [phone], [email protected]