DRIfocus Newsletter Spring 2012

DRIfocus

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation

Spring 2012 / Volume 39 / Issue 2 Miami / New York / Long Island / California / Washington, D.C.

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DRI AND PARTNERS EXPLORE NEW INITIATIVES,

AIM TO FAST-TRACK FINDINGS

Scientific collaboration has always been a hallmark of the Diabetes Research Institute, where an open-door philosophy and willingness to share new findings has changed the international research paradigm. Today, these strategic alliances are playing an increasingly critical role in the effort to cure diabetes by opening up new doors of discovery and aggregating expertise in key research areas.

“We actively seek partners who bring unique talents to the table, regardless of where their base institutions may reside, with each contributing simultaneously to answer a critical question that is perhaps unanswerable unless we all work together,” says DRI Scientific Director Camillo Ricordi, M.D. Accordingly, the DRI hosted several leading scientists over the last few months who came to Miami to present their latest findings and join together on novel research initiatives aimed at re-educating the immune system and restoring tolerance, and increasing cell supply. Below is a summary of the projects that were shared during their visit: Reactivating Insulin-Producing Cells Bart Roep, M.D., Ph.D., of Leiden University Medical Centre in Leiden, Netherlands, has recently demonstrated that islet cells may be reactivated, even years after the initial diabetes diagnosis.

His recent study refutes the long-standing belief that those with type 1 have no insulin-producing cells left at all. It seems that many people do have the cells, although the cells are not active.

Dr. Roep, whose research focuses on developing immunological intervention strategies in type 1 diabetes, has developed methods to identify and study white blood cells that are involved in the destruction of the islets. Further studies will focus on developing a vaccine that

In Memory of Robin Gibb The Diabetes Research Institute and Foundation mourns the loss of one of our family members, Robin Gibb. A longtime supporter and member of our Honorary Board of Directors, Robin reunited on stage with older brother and Bee Gees bandmate Barry Gibb for a spectacular concert at the 2006 Love and Hope Ball (pictured). Our hearts go out to the Gibb family and to everyone who loved Robin.

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Cover Dad

A Magical Afternoon

Idol Action

A Family Affair

Emeril Dishes

DRI Foundation VP Tom Karlya, a.k.a. Diabetes Dad, made the cover of Diabetes Health magazine.

Actor Jake T. Austin, best known for his role in the Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place, attended Long Island's Kids Party for a Cure.

American Idol season nine runner-up Crystal Bowersox performed at the Walk with Walgreens Family Fun Day & Health Fair.

Music legend Barry Gibb once again entertained the DRI family at the 38th Annual Love and Hope Ball.

Chef Emeril Lagasse added his essence at the American Fine Wine Competition Gala.

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A Message

IN MEMORY OF MARK H. AYERS

from the Chairman Dear Friends, In this issue of DRIFocus, we pay tribute to many remarkable individuals, including two men whose lives were taken far too prematurely.

As you read on the cover, the DRI and Foundation, as well as the world, lost a treasured legend when Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees succumbed to a challenging illness. Our thoughts and prayers are with his brother, Barry, who, together with his wife, Linda, serve as International Chairmen of our Love and Hope committee, and his entire family at this sad time. Many of you have been fortunate to attend their private performances at our Love and Hope galas and those memories will live on in our hearts.

Our DRI family also mourns the passing of National Board Member Mark H. Ayers, who served as president of the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department, our most significant contributor.

Mark was a man of high integrity and uncompromising principles, who championed the DRI’s efforts to find a cure. He recognized how deeply diabetes affects patients and their families, including countless union members, and he was passionately committed to ending their suffering. He was a dear friend and will be truly missed by all of us.

In the wake of our sadness, we cannot dim the brightness of the future and those who are shining examples of unrelenting dedication.

Throughout these pages, you’ll read about our supporters who are doing great things to bring us closer to cure for diabetes.

Among them is Isabel May (page 8), who recently celebrated her 100th birthday and still remains an active supporter of the DRI Foundation, among other organizations. Isabel’s continuing generosity, along with our other major donors, provides a critical base of support for the DRI. Ron Darling, one of our National Board members whose name may be familiar as a NY Mets superstar, is “obsessed” with ensuring that our DRI scientists have the resources they need to find a cure for his son and millions of others with diabetes. Through his foundation, Ron has helped to raise tens of thousands of dollars for the DRI, while cementing a wonderful fundraising partnership with McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at Citi Field (page 8).

Another father taking action for his son is Kevin McGurgan, one our Diabetes Diplomats who is a genuine diplomat. Kevin, who serves as British Consul-General in Miami, was inspired by the Summer Olympics taking place in his homeland and is running 12 races in 2012 to benefit the DRI. You can read about his story and those of our other Diabetes Diplomats on page 5.

And, there is the DRIF’s own Diabetes Dad, Tom Karlya, who is featured on the cover of the April/May issue of Diabetes Health magazine.

Tom, who has two children with type 1, urges parents to reach out to others, help their kids succeed and support the DRI. Many families are finding support through our PEP Squad (Parents Empowering Parents). Whether attending our mini-conferences or reaching out to others on our PEP Squad Facebook group, parents like Jen Yedo (page 12) are finding hope, inspiration and a dose of good ideas.

Patients and parents alike are getting involved throughout our regions and around the country through our many events, as leaders and participants. We thank each and every one of you for your tireless efforts.

In the article, Tom first states his connection to diabetes: Kaitlyn was diagnosed with type 1 at age 2 in 1992; his second of three children, Rob, was diagnosed at age 13 in 2009. He then speaks directly to parents about how to “navigate through the maze of diabetes.”

Tom offers advice on how to find friends online and talks about

Mark was a labor leader of vision, innovation, passion and integrity, and it was through his leadership that North America's Building Trades Unions are on the path to success and increased market share for the union construction industry.

Although our hearts are heavy, our spirits are lifted by virtue of the unsullied legacy of a working man who was grounded and guided to his core through the values that were instilled in him during his upbringing in Peoria, IL. Mark was a true trade unionist in every sense of the word, and it was through that

“Mark was a good friend and a great leader,” said Robert A. Pearlman, president and CEO of the DRI Foundation. “He led with vision and honesty, and he will remain in our hearts for a long time to come. Our thoughts are with his family and so many others who loved and respected him.”

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From our board members and countless loyal supporters to our DRI scientists and Foundation staff, we are all accomplishing great things for those living with diabetes. Thank you again for all that you do to support our cure-focused mission.

NEW DIRECTORS JOIN REGIONAL BOARDS

Sincerely,

The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to its regional boards in Florida and the Northeast.

Harold Doran Chairman of the Board

Sabrina Ferris of Miami, FL, joined the Florida Regional Board recently and kicked-off her service by becoming one of the top two fundraisers at the Walk with Walgreens Family Fun Day & Health Fair. She is committed to finding a cure for her son, Colby, 6, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the beginning of 2010. With her husband, Scott, and older son, Sage, 9, Sabrina's family have immersed themselves into supporting the DRI’s cure-focused mission. They have attended fundraising events, and Sabrina even served as the evening’s speaker at the last Love and Hope Preview Party.

the benefit of summer camp. He encourages families to attend the Children With Diabetes annual conference, Friends for Life, in Orlando, FL, slated for July 3-8, 2012.

Most importantly, he informs readers about the DRI’s cure-focused mission and makes a push for parents to get involved, or “Don’t Do Nothing,” as he aptly puts it.

Please visit DiabetesResearch.org/DiabetesDad.

commitment to bettering the lives of working families that he was able to offer so much to his country, his family, and to the labor movement.

Mark’s dedication to the Diabetes Research Institute was also strong-felt and unwavering.

He subscribed to a belief that “tough times never last, but tough people do,” and when the economy took a downturn, Mark announced that the BCTD would reconfirm their support with a gift of $5 million in 2010. He was resolute when he said of their tireless support, “We’ve come too far to turn back now.”

Everyone involved with this organization is providing the vital funding needed to further our research toward a cure, like the work of Dr. Chris Fraker (page 9). Dr. Fraker, who has type 1 diabetes himself, has conducted ground-breaking studies on the critical need for oxygen by insulin-producing cells and is working together with our other scientists to build on these promising findings.

DRIF’S TOM KARLYA GRACES DIABETES HEALTH COVER DRIF Vice President Tom Karlya is known ubiquitously by his pen name, Diabetes Dad. Thousands of people check in to read his column on dLife and follow his quirky and inspirational posts on Facebook.

Now, even more will read his article, “Don’t Do Nothing,” and see a vintage photo of Tom with his daughter, Kaitlyn, as a little girl as it graces the cover of Diabetes Health magazine.

With great sadness, the Diabetes Research Institute and Foundation mourns the loss of a dear friend and National Board member, Mark H. Ayers. He was the president of the Building and Contruction Trades Department (BCTD), which is the largest contributor to our organization.

“We found great comfort at the DRI,” she said. “Everyone there is so warm and welcoming. We truly feel like part of a family. We know… hope…believe the DRI will find a cure.”

A University of Miami alumnus, Sabrina is a shareholder with Greenberg Traurig in Miami. As a trial lawyer, she focuses her practice on products liability and complex commercial litigation in federal and state courts.

She has litigated matters involving fiduciary relationships, products liability, contract disputes, shareholder disputes, securities transactions, employee non-competition agreements, fraud and insurance claims.

She has earned numerous professional and community achievements

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1. Sabrina Ferris, 2. Bonnie Inserra.

and was listed as one of “40 Under 40” in the South Florida Business Journal in 2011 and as a “Rising Star” in Super Lawyers in 2009.

Bonnie Inserra of Mahwah, NJ, recently joined the Northeast Regional Board and has been a National Board member since 2009. She is the executive director and a benefactor of the Inserra Family Foundation.

She serves on the boards of the Hackensack University Medical Center Foundation and Tomorrow’s Children, as well as on the Advisory Board of Columbia Presbyterian Babies Hospital for Hope and Heroes. She also serves on the board for The Colleen Giblin Foundation, an organization from which Bonnie received the personal honor of becoming the first recipient of the Woman of the Millennium Award, in addition to receiving the Humanitarian of the Year Award for the Inserra family.

A staunch advocate for medical research, Bonnie is especially knowledgeable about diabetes and cancer. Her son, Lawrence, is a 20-year cancer survivor. Her commitment to the DRI began after her daughter, Lindsey, was diagnosed with a difficult-to-manage form of type 1 diabetes at age 11. Due to Bonnie’s tireless pursuit of revolutionary medical treatment to save her daughter’s life, Lindsey has directly benefited from groundbreaking research and developments, as she was the first child in the world to use the Mini Med Intra-Peritoneal Implanted Pump.

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HOW GIFTS FROM RETIREMENT PLANS BENEFIT THE DRI AND YOUR FAMILY

Charitable planning with retirement assets is one of the best ways to help bring us closer to a cure.

Retirement planning is a hot topic that’s becoming hotter as 77 million baby boomers prepare to enter and perhaps redefine retirement. For many individuals, retirement assets may comprise the largest component of their estates. While just about all of us have become concerned with the accumulation of retirement assets, far too few of us have thought about the ultimate distribution of those assets and their tax consequences at that time.

For those whose retirement assets have grown substantially over the years, charitable gift planning may offer an attractive alternative to having the assets depleted by taxes.

A planned gift to the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation may reduce or eliminate those taxes and, at the same time, better provide for family members. The key is to integrate your giving with your overall financial and estate planning.

The following are some of the most frequently asked questions that we receive regarding the use of retirement assets for charitable gift planning: Why are retirement assets subject to income taxes for heirs?

The tax law classifies retirement assets such as traditional IRAs, 401(k), 403(b) and Keogh plans as income in respect of a decedent (IRD), which refers to assets that would have been taxed as income had the decedent lived to receive them. Left to family members or friends, retirement assets are subject to income tax, may also be subject to estate tax, and if given to grandchildren, could also incur the generation-skipping transfer tax (GST). The combined taxes

could deplete the retirement account by as much as two-thirds.

RUNNING…DANCING…

CREATING A CURE!

How can I integrate charitable gifts of retirement assets with my financial and estate planning?

Because of the potential multiple layers of tax that your family may incur, retirement plan assets may be particularly attractive as an asset to leave to the DRI Foundation. If you designate the DRI Foundation as a beneficiary upon your death of all or a specified percentage of a retirement plan, the portion of the plan payable to the Foundation will generally escape estate taxes, and the Foundation, as a tax-exempt institution, will not be required to pay income tax on the distributions. As a general rule, if you intend to make both non-charitable and charitable gifts at death, it makes sense to consider using your tax-deferred retirement plan assets for charity and other assets, such as appreciated securities, for heirs.

Serving as advocates, educators and event fundraisers in their schools and communities, people from all over the world are participating in the DRI Foundation’s Diabetes Diplomats program. Even an actual foreign diplomat has joined the ranks of these individuals dedicated to helping the DRI find a cure!

How do I donate retirement assets?

The easiest way to donate retirement plan assets is to designate the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation as a beneficiary. You can contact the administrator of your plan and they will send you the correct forms to sign. If you are married, your spouse must waive his or her right to survivor benefits from the plan (not the case for IRAs). When you designate the DRI Foundation as a beneficiary, as with a charitable bequest, you have considerable flexibility. You can give a specific amount to us, or a percentage to us and other beneficiaries. You can name your spouse as the primary beneficiary and the DRI Foundation as the secondary beneficiary. Another way to give from your retirement account is to have those assets transferred at death to a charitable remainder trust (CRT) with the remainder interest going to us, but only after the termination of all income rights.

If the beneficiary of the CRT is a spouse, it is possible (by combining this strategy with the unlimited marital deduction) to eliminate all federal estate taxes attributable to the retirement account.

“Diabetes has changed our lives completely,” Kevin said. “I’ve never done anything like this. I’m just a regular guy who likes to exercise and I decided to take it to another level.”

Sharing his sentiment in Virginia Beach, VA, is Aimee Curley.

Though she has run half marathons in the past, Aimee felt that it would be appropriate to take on her first full marathon – the 40th Yuengling Shamrock Marathon – at age 40. She visited DiabetesResearch.org/DiabetesDiplomats and learned how to easily create a fundraising page. There she uploaded a photo of 15-year-old Shaelyn West, “my incredible niece who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 3.” Friends and family members made donations online that exceeded $5,500, and as Aimee ran 26.2 miles on March 18, she silently gave thanks to each one.

Can I make a gift to the DRI Foundation from my retirement account during my lifetime?

Yes – if you are over age 59 ½, you can make withdrawals from your retirement plan and contribute the amount withdrawn to the DRI Foundation. You can fully deduct it as a charitable gift and you will not owe federal income tax on the amount donated. You will also have removed the amount from your estate.

Also in the Northeast, while Tara Byrne was preparing to graduate early (as a junior) from Warwick Valley High School in Warwick, NY, she was also organizing a Diabetes Dance Marathon to benefit the DRI. Held on May 19, the 12-hour event attracted 300 teens from throughout Orange County and raised more than $10,000. Tara became instantly dedicated to the cause after her step-father said

British Consul-General Kevin McGurgan of Miami, FL, was inspired by the 2012 London Summer Olympics when he decided to run 12 Races in 2012 in South Florida and throughout the country. Every drop of sweat is mixed with the love Kevin has for his 7-year-old son, Michael, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 2, and the hope he found at the DRI while touring the labs. So far he has raised $4,332.

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to her, “Some people joke that they would give anything for cash or a new car, but I really would give anything – an arm or leg – to live a day without [type 1] diabetes.”

In Philadelphia, PA, another parent-child conversation revolved around a day spent at the DRI. For 11-year old Jonathan Berman, it was “the best day of my life so far!” Motivated by the excitement and hope he witnessed in the labs, Jonathan and his family created a “store for a cure” at www.cafepress.com/curet1d, where creative d-centric flip-flops are available for sale to benefit the DRI. Jonathan encourages everyone to “Have fun in the sun this summer in our custom-designed flip flops and let your feet raise awareness for a cure!”

Another Diabetes Diplomats initiative powered by creativity is Klips for a Cure, based in Daytona Beach, FL. Klips are decorative hair accessories handmade by teen Hannah Klippel, who has type 1 diabetes, and her mother, Susan, and sold for a donation between $1 and $3. With a goal of raising $5,000 for the DRI, so far Team Hannah’s Hope has raised more than $1,600.

These Diabetes Diplomats make it clear that running, dancing and creating are feasible ways to help the DRI move closer to a cure.

What are your hobbies? Let us help you turn them into a Diabetes Diplomats project! Contact Tom Karlya at tomkarlya@drif.org or find out for yourself how easy it is to create your own fundraising page at DiabetesResearch.org/DiabetesDiplomats. Just don’t do nothing!

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ARE YOU AWARE OF

HOW THE 2012 TAX LAW AFFECTS YOU? The calendar year 2012 may turn out to be one of the best years for making a gift to the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation during your lifetime. Despite continued uncertainty in the tax laws, donors will have some unique opportunities to make charitable gifts this year. Here are some of the highlights: •

The lifetime gift tax exemption is $5.12M for individuals (up from $1M) and $10.24M for married couples (up from $2M). The estate tax exemption also increased to $5.12M.

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The unified credit, which integrates the federal gift tax and estate tax into one unified tax system, enables you to give away $5.12 million during your lifetime without having to pay gift tax.

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There are a number of ways that you can transfer assests to your children, grandchildren or other people that you wish to make gifts to that qualify for the current exemption amounts while also enabling you to make a charitable gift to advance the DRI’s most promising cure-focused research. For more information, please contact Jill Shapiro Miller, vice president of Gift Planning, at jshapiro@drif.org or at (800) 321-3437. For more details on the tax law in 2012, please visit DiabetesResearch.org/TaxLawUpdate.

1. British Diplomat Kevin McGurgan in Miami, FL, is also a Diabetes Diplomat, running 12 Races in 2012 in honor of his son, Michael., 2. Aimee Curley participated in her first marathon in honor of her niece, Shae, in Virginia Beach, VA., 3. Tara Byrne, president and founder of Diabetes Dance Marathon, raised thousands in Warwick, NY., 4. At the DRI Jonathan Berman gave a “high five for a cure” to Gary Kleiman, DRI and Foundation senior director of Medical Development.

Back home in Philadelphia, PA, he created flip flops for a cure!, 5. In Daytona Beach, FL, the Klippel family created Klips for a Cure, a Team Hannah’s Hope initiative.

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DONOR LEVEL

FOUNDATION DONORS RECOGNIZED

Visionaries Chairman’s Council Leadership Council Governors’ Society Distinguished Humanitarians Grand Founders Founders Benefactors

Awards from the DRI Foundation’s Cycle of Discovery series were presented to donors who recently made major gifts. The award program corresponds with the Foundation’s cumulative giving designations. Awards were presented individually and at various events, including a lovely holiday reception at the Muttontown Club in Long Island and a post Empire Ball committee reception at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City.

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AWARD

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$10,000,000+ $5,000,000+ $1,000,000+ $500,000+

Innovation Validation Perpetuation Translation

$250,000+ $100,000+ $50,000+ $25,000+

Realization Exploration Hypothesis Query

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PERPETUATION AWARD: Larry Inserra accepted on behalf of The Inserra Family with DRI’s Scientific Director Dr. Camillo Ricordi and DRIF’s President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman(1).

TRANSLATION AWARD: Roy Ripak accepted on behalf of Walgreens of South Florida with DRIF’s Tom Karlya (2).

REALIZATION AWARD: Bianca and Vince Wilfork of the New England Patriots with DRIF's Brian Huether (3).

EXPLORATION AWARD: Lucy Carter and Ted Moudis of Ted Moudis Associates, Inc. (4), Shelley and Steven Deutsch (5), Lisa and David Desmond with DRIF’s Pearlman and Deborah Chodrow (6), Stan Doobin of Harvard Maintenance, Inc. (7), Tammy and Steven Klein (8), Allan and Louise Pashcow (9) HYPOTHESIS AWARD: John Gutleber, Deidre Costa-Major, Frank and Rita Castagna representing Americana Manhasset with LI Board member Barbara Hatz (10), David and Iris Feldman (11), Jim Guy (12), Richard Wood of Plaza Construction Corporation (13).

QUERY AWARD: Kaye Garcia of the Forest County Potawatomi Foundation with National Board member Glenn Kleiman (14), Jill and Robert Rosenhaus (15), Wendy Waller (16)

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Ron Darling and his son, Jordan, are hoping a new partnership with McFadden's at Citi Field will raise funds for the DRI!

BASEBALL GREAT RON DARLING PITCHES IN TO SUPPORT THE DRI Back in the day, Ron Darling was a high-profile, right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets. He debuted in Major League Baseball in 1983, won the 1986 World Series and played his final game in 1995. He remains in the spotlight as a color commentator for national baseball coverage and has won an Emmy Award as “Best Sports Analyst.”

But all that is secondary to his life’s one true mission – to find a cure for diabetes for his son, Jordan, 18, and the millions affected by it.

“I wanted to align myself with an organization where I thought people were doing great work – not good work – but great work, and I was looking for a place that was focused on a cure,” Ron recalled. “When your child is sick, you try to educate yourself with the latest research.

I came across the brilliant work being conducted at the Diabetes Research Institute, and I am obsessed with making sure these scientists have the access to funding that they need to complete their work.”

Through his foundation, Ron has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for the DRI. This past December, he hosted his second Texas Hold'em Tournament and Casino Night at Leonard's of Great Neck on Long Island. Currently, the Ron Darling Foundation has teamed up with McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at Citi Field. All season long, restaurant patrons will have the opportunity to enter the McFadden’s Sports Fan of the Month contest by making a donation. Everyone who contributes $5 or more will be entered into the drawing. Each month, one generous donor will receive: four of Ron’s personal tickets to a game, access to batting practice and a booth visit with Ron (Learn more at DiabetesResearch.org/McFaddens).

“We’ve been lucky enough to partner with McFadden’s to help us reach out to Mets fans. It’s this kind of sexy idea that helps us not only raise money but create awareness,” said Ron, who confessed he didn’t know much about diabetes prior to Jordan’s diagnosis.

“I got that call,” he remembered. “I was on the other coast, and his mother brought him to the hospital. It was a shock to all of us.

It was scary for Jordan, who was 11 at the time. But he is very intelligent, and he just got it. He knew what to do, and he’s been very independent.”

Ron continued, “Jordan is a gifted athlete, but he consciously decided that with everything on his plate, he couldn’t pursue the sports thing. And he’s found a different outlet. He turned to music, and I always found that incredibly strong. He’s a pianist, a guitar player, and he writes his own music. He’s pretty brave,” said Ron poignantly, in the voice of a proud father who desperately wants a cure for his son.

“I want to say to my son one day, ‘Jordan, all the money we raised… all the good deeds we did…have found you a cure.” That’s exactly why Ron joined the National Board of Directors for the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation and visited the world-renowned center in Miami to learn firsthand about the DRI’s vital research.

“The DRI is a cutting-edge facility. Once I visited, I was sold. Ever since, I’ve been trying to help in any way that I can.”

100 YEARS YOUNG... AND A LEGACY OF PHILANTHROPY Isabel May recently celebrated her 100th birthday. Still active and extraordinarily generous to many charitable causes, the Diabetes Research Institute is honored to be one of her favorite organizations.

Isabel has been involved with the DRI for more than three decades through the Love and Hope Committee. Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman reached out to her and invited her to attend one of the Love and Hope Balls, and soon she began taking a much more active role, serving as the Preview Party Hostess for more than 10 years, and this year as the Honorary Chairman of the Ball.

The DRI family thanks Isabel May for her friendship, caring and kindness.

Born in Brooklyn and residing on Long Island for many years, Isabel and her late husband, Sam, were originally snowbirds, and eventually moved to Miami Beach. Sam was a CPA, and set up a practice in Florida.

Isabel was a social worker with the Brooklyn Department of Welfare by profession and a “people person” by heart. Following in her

mother's philanthropic footsteps, Isabel said, “I’ve tried many things… knitting, sewing…but I really enjoy being with people...so you can say that charitable organizations were my hobby.”

Isabel had a special piece of furniture built so she could display the numerous awards she has been given over the years in recognition of her generosity. While she didn’t make these contributions for this purpose, it reminds her, and those who visit her, about the importance of philanthropy.

Sam was diagnosed with diabetes as he got older, so Isabel knows first-hand about living with it, but she is particularly compassionate when it affects young children.

Isabel has two children – a son who lives in Manhattan with his family, and a daughter who splits her time between Long Island and Plantation. She also is a proud grandmother of five, and a greatgrandmother of 10. They all recently joined her to celebrate her very special birthday.

A member of the DRI Foundation’s prestigious Governors’ Society, Isabel has contributed over half a million dollars to help fund research that she believes will lead to a cure for this devastating disease.

UNDER THE MICROSCOPE

with Chris Fraker, Ph.D.

Over the last several years, the Diabetes Research Institute has shown the extraordinary potential of cell replacement therapy to restore insulin function. While progress has been substantial, islet transplantation, one of the methods being pursued, remains an experimental procedure and we are working to overcome the remaining challenges that limit its widespread use.

One of the major challenges is to identify new sites in the body in which to transplant the cells, as the liver is no longer thought to be an optimal environment. Our goal at the DRI is to identify sites that closely mimic the native environment of the pancreas to give transplanted insulin-producing cells the best chance at long-term survival. The availability of oxygen will be key to creating an optimized site; islets make up only 1-2 percent of the entire pancreas where they reside, yet they use almost 25 percent of the oxygen that flows through the organ.

At the DRI, we are developing ways to deliver that level of oxygen to the islets. We are also testing several strategies to deliver the vital oxygen levels more effectively to stem cells as they mature into insulin-producing cells. Achieving the required amounts of oxygen is critical in our efforts to restore natural insulin production.

At the center of much of this work is Dr. Chris Fraker, research assistant professor of surgery and cell transplantation at the Diabetes Research Institute, who has spearheaded many cutting-edge initiatives aimed at curing diabetes for both professional and personal reasons.

Q. For you, this work is personal, isn't it?

A. Yes. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes

on my 16th birthday. Today, 26 years later, I'm starting to develop low-level complications and my children have the markers for the disease. So, as you can imagine, I'm motivated to find a cure.

Q. How does your work at the DRI impact cure-focused research?

A. Islet cells need a lot of oxygen to effectively sense glucose and produce insulin. So when we harvest islets from a donor pancreas or develop insulin-producing cells in the lab, we need to make sure we're providing those cells with an oxygen-rich environment so they can survive and function. Without adequate oxygen, some cells will die before they can even be transplanted. Or worse, cells that are transplanted may not survive their first few days post transplant; a critical time when blood vessels are still forming that will naturally carry oxygen to the cells.

So providing an oxygen-rich environment is vital, both in terms of developing a supply of cells for transplant and in the survival of those cells immediately following transplant.

Q. How is the DRI using oxygen to increase the supply of insulin-producing cells?

A. Stem cells represent one of the most promising sources of insulin-producing cells for transplant, since they have the potential to become any type of cell. In the lab, we've shown that oxygen plays a major role in the process of transforming stem cells into insulinproducing cells. We developed and patented a device called the "oxygen sandwich" to provide maturing stem cells with an oxygen environment that’s more like the native pancreas, compared to traditional plastic culture containers. In testing, cells in the sandwich produced an increase in insulin gene expression in precursor cells that was several

times higher than control precursor cells.

Q. Once insulin-producing cells are transplanted, how is the DRI using oxygen to enhance the cells' chances of survival?

A. During the first few days after transplant, cells are under a tremendous amount of stress; they're subject to inflammatory reactions and immune attack. We're using oxygen to help create environments that will shield the cells.

At the DRI, we’ve been working to optimize cell encapsulation technology – the process of coating the cells with a protective shield so they go unnoticed by the immune system.

Early in my career here, I worked with the late Dr. Marcos Mares-Guia, a Brazilian researcher whose encapsulation work laid the groundwork for some of our recent efforts.

We've come a long way since that time, further developing the Tissue Engineering program at the DRI and building upon this early work and using new, biocompatible materials. Recently, my colleague Dr. Alice Tomei developed a type of coating that literally conforms to the unique size and shape of each islet. This “conformal coating,” as it’s called, allows the implanted islets to go unnoticed by the body and avoid an inflammatory reaction, yet still allows oxygen and other nutrients to easily reach the cell.

Now we’re taking that research a step further.

I'm working with her to develop coating materials that could potentially generate oxygen, which I hope will give the islets an even greater chance to thrive.

I also worked with the DRI's Dr. Cherie Stabler in her lab, developing a novel biomaterial and a method to deliver a slow but steady stream of oxygen to cells. This material has Story continues on page 11.

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AROUND

THE DRI

Under the Microscope story continues from page 9.

the capacity to generate oxygen when it's exposed to water. In testing, the material created an environment that sustained oxygen supplementation for more than six weeks – which could bridge that critical gap between the time islets are transplanted and the time blood vessels are formed to support them. Our hope is that an added infusion of oxygen will make Dr. Stabler’s "scaffold," a three-dimensional framework designed to promote the survival of transplanted cells, a more viable tool for future clinical trials.

DRI AND FOUNDATION CO-ORGANIZERS OF WORLD STEM CELL SUMMIT The Diabetes Research Institute and Foundation are serving as co-organizing partners of the 8th annual World Stem Cell Summit, scheduled for December 3 – 5, 2012 at the Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, FL. This annual Summit is the global stem cell and regenerative medicine community’s flagship event and brings together scientists, patients, advocates, business people, government representatives and more who share knowledge and tackle the field’s most important issues.

This year’s Summit will feature more than 170 renowned international speakers conducting in-depth program tracks in science, business and society, and attract more than 1,200 attendees.

DRI Scientific Director Camillo Ricordi says, “Diabetes currently affects more than 360 million people worldwide and it is predicted that within the next 18 years the toll will pass the 500 million mark. Stem cells are central to ongoing cure-focused strategies at the DRI and at over 30 collaborating centers worldwide that comprise the DRI Federation and the Cure Alliance.”

Joining the DRI and DRIF as co-organizers is the Genetics Policy Institute, the producer of the World Stem Cell Summit, the Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute (ISCI), one of the DRI’s partner centers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, a partner in the DRI Federation, and the City of Hope.

For more information on the World Stem Cell Summit, visit WorldStemCellSummit.com.

NEW IMMUNOSUPPRESSION REGIMEN PROMOTES LONG-TERM INSULIN INDEPENDENCE DRI Director of Clinical Islet Transplantation Dr. Rodolfo Alejandro and the clinical cell transplant team together with collaborators Dr. Bernhard Hering and his team at the University of Minnesota have shown that long-term insulin independence can be achieved in islet transplant patients who receive potent immunosuppression during the pre-transplant phase. The patients who received the new immunosuppressive regimen were twice as likely to remain insulin free for more than five years as compared to patients receiving the previously-tested drug levels.

Insulin independence rates in the recipients approach those seen in pancreas transplants. The results of the study, which were published in the May issue of the Journal of Transplantation, suggest that this drug regimen may benefit long-term outcomes through improved engraftment of a greater number of islets – less islets die off during initial implantation – and minimized recurrent autoimmunity.

Norma Kenyon Named Chief Innovation Officer at UM The DRI’s Norma Sue Kenyon, Ph.D., has been appointed chief innovation officer at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. In this new role, Dr. Kenyon will lead the Universitywide efforts to identify and promote its innovative discoveries and bring them to market to serve a wider group of patients suffering with health conditions.

Her appointment comes at a time when the University of Miami is advancing its goal to reach the top ranks of the nation’s medical centers by becoming a top 20 medical school by 2020, as well as a medical destination for all patients from South Florida and beyond.

Dr. Kenyon succeeds UM's Jack Lord, M.D., who recently was named chief operating officer of the Miller school and UHealth. She also serves as the Martin Kleiman Professor of Surgery, Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology and Biomedical Engineering, and the executive director of the Wallace H. Coulter Center for Translational Research at UM. She is also a senior scientist at the DRI. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Kenyon on this prestigious and welldeserved appointment.

Q. How will this body of research lead us to a cure for diabetes?

A. We know that oxygen plays a critical role in the development and function of insulin-

producing cells. By delivering oxygen more effectively to stem cells as they mature in the lab, we can create an unlimited supply of islet cells for transplantation. And, if we can ensure transplanted cells get the oxygen they need, especially during those critical first few days, they'll have a better chance to survive long term. Both of these need to happen if we're going to make cellular therapy viable and available to the millions of people who can benefit from it.

Q. Why the DRI? A. Early in my career, I was involved in more treatment-based work: designing implantable glucose sensors with the hope of coupling them with insulin pumps. But I knew that was never going to lead to a true cure. I found

the cellular-based therapy work being done at the DRI fascinating, and I literally badgered Dr. Camillo Ricordi, the Institute's scientific director, or rather his executive assistant, Mabel Luis, until he hired me. That was 15 years ago, and there's a simple reason I'm still here. Everyone at the DRI and at the DRI Foundation is committed and driven to find a cure. It's a remarkable place.

To learn more about the cure-focused research being conducted by the DRI or to view scientist profiles and published findings in peer-reviewed journals, sign up to receive our Under the Microscope e-Newsletter. Simply login or create your DRInsider profile.

Cover story continues.

specifically targets these cells. He will be working with the DRI’s Luca Inverardi, M.D., Jay Skyler, M.D. and Alberto Pugliese, M.D., and their teams to further investigate these strategies.

Re-educating the Immune System with Stem Cells Drs. Inverardi, Skyler and Pugliese, together with Mark Atkinson, Ph.D., of the University of Florida, are also involved in another exciting project with Yong Zhao, Ph.D., of the University of Illinois/Chicago. Dr. Zhao has completed a study in Chinese patients with type 1 diabetes of long duration and shown that recirculation of the patient’s blood cells through a machine seeded with stem cells was followed by an increase in insulin production in patients that were not producing any insulin before the treatment. It is believed that exposure of the patients’ white blood cells to the stem cells may re-educate the immune system and facilitate regeneration of insulin-producing cells. Dr. Inverardi, who was very interested in the study, provided commentary for the news story and shared the findings with our other DRI scientists. Dr. Zhao was invited to the DRI to present his work on the preliminary study conducted in China. The researchers are now exploring avenues for working together and

further developing the therapeutic efficiency of this approach.

Learning from Cancer Vincenzo Bronte, M.D., professor of immunology at the University of Verona in Italy, is a world-recognized Dr. Roep, pictured with the DRI’s Drs. Inverardi and Ricordi, immunologist who pioneered the has demonstrated that islet cells can be reactivated after a field of myeloid-derived suppressor type 1 diagnosis. cells (MDSCs), which are special immune cells found in large number “clean” herd of pigs – as an unlimited source surrounding tumors. These cells interfere of insulin-producing islets cells. He and his with the body’s ability to detect and destroy these malignancies. He and his colleagues are team have conducted a series of pre-clinical investigating methods to eliminate MDSCs in trials using innovative immunosuppressive therapies, which have resulted in prolonged cancer patients in order to destroy the tumors. insulin independence in the study models.

At the DRI, Dr. Inverardi and his team are working with Dr. Bronte to achieve the opposite At the DRI, several research teams have been working with Dr. Hering and preparing to result. They are focusing on developing conduct clinical (patient) transplantation trials strategies aimed at increasing the number using the pig islets together with the new of MDSCs to protect transplanted insulincocktails of drugs, as well as testing the new producing cells and eliminate the need for conformal coating encapsulation methods powerful anti-rejection drugs. developed and patented by our tissue Addressing Cell Supply with Pig Islets engineering team (see story Under the Long-time DRI collaborator Bernhard Hering, Microscope with Chris Fraker on page 9).

M.D., professor of surgery and scientific director of the Schulze Diabetes Institute at the University of Minnesota, has been pursuing the use of pathogen-free pigs – a special

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SHARING DIABETES THE YEDO FAMILY’S STORY When your child is diagnosed with diabetes, a thousand thoughts start pulsing through your mind…but there’s no family history…have we done something to cause this…if only I could change places with my child. Jennifer Yedo, a South Florida mother of three girls, Stephanie, Madeline and Charlotte, had all these thoughts and more when her eldest daughter, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 4. And though she couldn’t change places with Stephanie and couldn’t take away the pain and the burden of this disease, she has recently gained a newfound respect for all that her daughter has had to endure over the last 13 years.

Diagnosed with diabetes earlier this year, Jen is now insulindependent herself.

“I had the classic symptoms, the thirst, the hunger – everything I remember my daughter going through,” Jen said. “I checked my blood sugar, and it was 400. The doctor put me on insulin right away, and I was also diagnosed with celiac disease.”

Jen’s double diagnosis was a low blow for a family that had already been dealt a difficult hand. Jen also has chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). “It’s been one thing after the other for many years,” she said.

Yet, the Yedo family has found a “new normal” that works for them.

“Our whole family is gluten free. My husband, Jim, was adamant about all of us doing the same thing and adapting to what needs to be done. He is my rock, and actually I feel really fortunate,” stated Jen, who is one of the DRI Foundations’ PEP Squad leaders (Parents Empowering Parents). “But more than anything else, I felt guilty. I was getting upset that I have diabetes – that I have to check my blood sugar and take insulin. There are days when I just don’t want to do it. But, my child has been doing this since she was 4 years old! Who am I to feel upset?

LET ME COUNT THE WAYS TO GIVE There are so many different ways to contribute to the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation. Below is a short list of easy ways to give, and we have additional ideas posted on our website. Go to: DiabetesResearch.org/WaystoGive

“When I had my first low, Stephanie was right next to me talking me through it,” recalled Jen, referring to the role reversal as surreal.

“My mom got really nervous because it was her first really low blood sugar,” said Stephanie, who is 17 and a junior in high school.

“She was overdosing on sugar, and I told her, ‘You just have to calm down and everything will be fine. I’ve felt like that too.’”

Jen explained how her perspective has changed. “The first words out of my mouth were always, ‘What were your numbers today at school?’ It drives me crazy now that Jim asks that of me! So, it’s no longer the first thing we talk about, and I’m not as hard on her as I used to be.

“I can’t imagine doing all of this as a teenager. They are dealing with something that’s well beyond their years. Hopefully, other parents can understand that from me,” Jen stated.

Stephanie, who just made the dance team at school and looks forward to college in another year, said, “Before, we used to have little fights when my blood sugars were out of range, but now that’s better because she understands.”

Stephanie is also proud that her family is so involved with the Diabetes Research Institute. In addition to being part of the PEP Squad, they’ve sponsored and attended multiple fundraising events. “I love helping out because it means we’re even closer to a cure.”

Shop Cure Thrift Shop Online When even Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, is donning thrift shop finds, the allure of thrifting cannot be denied. Vintage-over-new is all the rage, and the ultimate advantage is uncovering items that are no longer available, which means no one can copy your personal style. Perhaps that’s why Elizabeth Wolff’s Cure Thrift Shop to benefit the Diabetes Research Institute has become the go-to NYC spot for bargains, trends and unique treasures. Can’t make it to Manhattan?

Shop online at CureThriftShop.com.

Liz sifts through the various donated goods each week to select a number of interesting items specifically for the online store, which is continuously being updated. Affordable and easily shipped right to your door…you can’t beat that!

HAPPY FATHER’S ADAY! Gift of Love …

A Gift of Hope A generous contribution has been made in your name to support the promising work of the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI).

Write your message here.

200 S. Park Road, Suite 100, Hollywood, FL 33021 (800) 321-3437 DiabetesResearch.org

In Honor and Memory, In Lieu of Gifts Graduation parties abound, and soon we’ll all be recognizing dear ol’ dad on Father’s Day. Rather than send traditional gifts or yet another tie, why not send an e-card with a donation to the Diabetes Research Institute in honor of your loved one? It’s a wonderful way to show someone you care and express your commitment to a cure. The DRI Foundation makes

it simple to do. Just call 1-800-321-3437 or visit DiabetesResearch.org/ecards.

E-Giving…“E” as in Easy!

Online giving continues to grow at a rapid pace. That’s because it’s never been so easy to support the cure-focused research at the DRI. Every day, donors are finding the green Donate Now button on every page of our website (DiabetesResearch.org), and we can’t thank you enough! But why not take it a step further? Become an e-activist.

Share the fact that you made an online gift on Facebook. Statistics show that a friend’s FB post is a more powerful motivator than a solicitation directly from the organization. If finding a cure for diabetes is one of your top priorities, get wired and watch your words go viral.

“Don’t Do Nothing” This Summer Summer is upon us. To most families, that means summer camp, vacation plans, beach days and much-needed relaxation. And yes, you absolutely do deserve a break! But have you thought about organizing your own fundraising project and joining other Diabetes Diplomats to support the DRI’s work toward a cure? Make summer meaningful for you and your family. Host a lemonade stand or a car wash. Create your own fundraising webpage at DiabetesResearch.org/DiabetesDiplomats, then share with your network. The possibilities are endless. Just don’t do nothing! Be the Hero this summer by becoming a Diabetes Diplomat for the DRI. If you have an idea of your own and just aren’t sure how to execute it, contact us at TomKarlya@drif.org.

A FREE GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR WILL Developing your estate plan and preparing a will are two of the most important things you can do to protect your family and your legacy.

For a limited time, the DRI Foundation is pleased to provide you with a free Wills Kit, which contains worksheets that will make it easier to compile the required information and outline your wishes. Whether you are creating or updating your will, A Guide to Planning Your Will is designed to encourage you to think about how you want your assets to be distributed and to assist you in gathering the information for your attorney.

Contact us today – call (800) 321-3437.

LET US PAY TRIBUTE TO YOU! If you have named the DRI Foundation as a beneficiary in your will or in your estate plans (such as your retirement plan, life insurance, gift annuity or trust), you are eligible for membership in the DRI Heritage Society.

DRI Heritage Society members are recognized in perpetuity on a designated Wall of Honor at the Diabetes Research Institute. Members also receive a distinctive Heritage Society award and are listed in our Annual Report.

As a token of our appreciation, new members who join the DRI Heritage Society by December 31, 2012 will receive an additional special memento. For more information, please contact Jill Shapiro Miller, vice president of gift planning, at (800) 321-3437.

DOLLARS ADD UP WITH CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT AND THE UNIONS When you hear the name “Caesars,” you might think of the lavish Las Vegas lifestyle, spectacular dining, unbelievable spa treatments and pool scenes fit for Roman gods and goddesses, plus extraordinary entertainment. If you add “good will” to that account, you’ll be right on the money! For each Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD) convention held on a Caesars Entertainment property (which owns Harrah’s, Caesars and Horseshoe, to name a few), the company donates $1 per room night to the Diabetes Research Institute. Those dollars add up remarkably fast, and the company has donated more than $1 million for our cure-focused work.

Caesars Entertainment National Sales Manager, Nancy Smalkas, stated, “We could not be prouder of our partnership with both the BCTD and the Labor of Love event. We know that the research we have funded over the years at the Diabetes Research Institute, through this event, is money well spent in the unyielding efforts to find a cure. We are here, with our Labor Partners, until the millions who suffer with this disease see the cure we all hope to one day realize.” Nancy recently presented the latest check to new BCTD President Sean McGarvey (pictured).

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MISSION: ENGAGE EVERY AGE...ACCOMPLISHED at Kids Party for a Cure & Carnival for a Cure 1

HEALTH, HOPE & HARMONY

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1. Carnival for a Cure Chairpersons Scott and Meredith Buchwald and Sabrina and Scott Chosed 2. DRIF Long Island Regional Chairman Allan L. Pashcow with Jake T. Austin and Kids Party for a Cure Chairpersons René Checchia and Frankie Lam

Effectively warding off the cabin fever that lingers in early spring, nearly 1,000 New York Tri-state area residents of all ages jumped at the chance to get out of the house and into a party on two different weekends of March. While focusing on fun, they helped raise nearly $400,000 for the DRI. “Our goal has always been to get people involved and engage them in the fight to find a cure,” said Frankie Lam, who co-chaired Kids Party for a Cure along with René Checchia.

“The Kids Party does that by combining fun and a very important message of hope and support for diabetes research.”

At the Ninth Annual Kids Party for a Cure children and adults alike were busy from the moment they entered Dave and Buster’s at the Mall at The Source in Westbury.

While some were mesmerized by endless video and arcade games, others enjoyed jumping on inflatables, sharpening their pool skills or bowling. Food and prizes were a hit, but the highlight of the afternoon for many was the opportunity to meet 17-yearold actor Jake T. Austin, who is best known

WALK WITH WALGREENS FAMILY FUN DAY & HEALTH FAIRS OFFER

for starring in Disney’s award-winning series, “Wizards of Waverly Place” alongside Selena Gomez. Guests of all ages were charmed by Jake as he chatted with fans, signed everything from cell phones to teddy bears, and even made a donation to the DRI! “We couldn't be happier with our special guest,” René said. “He is a wonderful and giving young man. His compassion for children with type 1 diabetes and to finding a cure is to be commended.”

In New York City at the Metropolitan Pavilion, the Seventh Annual Carnival for a Cure also offered family-friendly fun. Led by Sabrina and Scott Chosed and Meredith and Scott Buchwald, the hard-working Carnival committee was proud to give kids and adults alike a spectacular Sunday afternoon filled with tasty foods, thrilling games, magic, crafts and prizes galore.

“I’ll do anything to find a cure for my daughter, and this event allows the kids to feel like they’re part of finding the cure too,” commented Meredith.

As their children raced from one activity to the next, parents and grandparents shopped the silent auction, which featured several exclusive offerings such as a chance to have “Elmo” from Sesame Street leave a personalized voicemail, tickets to Broadway shows, Pinkalicious-branded items, highend hotel stays, sports packages, jewelry and more.

Activities came to a standstill when New York’s WCBS-TV News anchor Chris Wragge, took the stage to introduce teen singing sensation, Jenna Rose. Flanked by back-up dancers, she performed two lively choreographed songs.

Thanks to the generosity and participation of so many, Kids Party and Carnival produced much-needed funds for the DRI, while creating a fun-filled afternoon for family members of every generation.

Reflecting the burgeoning partnership between Walgreens and the DRI Foundation, the second Walk with Walgreens Family Fun Day and Health Fair, presented by LifeScan and Neutrogena SunCare, more than doubled the proceeds of its premier event! Held simultaneously in four South Florida locations on March 24, the family affair attracted thousands of walkers, including dozens of members of the DRI’s faculty and staff, to Central Broward Regional Park in Fort Lauderdale, Tradition Square in Port St. Lucie, Amelia Earhart Park in Miami, and Okeeheelee Park in West Palm Beach.

In Fort Lauderdale, singer/songwriter Crystal Bowersox gave an acoustic performance, which was presented by LifeScan, Inc., makers of the OneTouch® Brand of blood glucose monitoring systems.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes two decades ago, she was a season nine American Idol finalist and has used her rising star status to encourage others with diabetes to live their dreams.

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Other VIPs participating in the special day included: former New York Mets pitcher and DRI Foundation board member Ron Darling; Walgreens Market Vice President Roy Ripak; LifeScan National Account Director Vince DeTurris; Diabetes Research Institute Scientific Director Camillo Ricordi; Walgreens Market Pharmacy Director Georgia Lehoczky; former Miami Dolphins players John Offerdahl and Nat Moore; Mayor Richard J. Kaplan of Lauderhill; Mayor JoAnn Faiella of Port St. Lucie; and teen pop singer Meghan Ritmiller. Also deserving special thanks are Walgreens Site Coordinators Steve Flynn, Dan Espinosa, Tim Martinez, Anthony Contento, Mariela Tuero and Tom Lehoczky, as well as Family Team Chair Rita Hart.

The top fundraisers of the day were: Team Jace, The Tacher Family; Team Colby, The Ferris Family; Team Brother Sister, The Greenwald Family; Team Sammy, The Schechter Family; and Team Jax, led by Lisa Grace and family.

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1. Walgreens Market VP Roy Ripak with his daughter, Samantha, LifeScan National Account Director Vince DeTurris, Crystal Bowersox, and DRI Foundation VP Tom Karlya.

2. Team Jace, led by Jenn and Jared Tacher, raised more than $7,700 and was comprised of 60 friends and family members of 4-year-old Jace. 3. Ron Darling speaks of his hope for a cure as Port St. Lucie Walgreens Site Coordinator Steve Flynn, Family Team Chair Rita Hart, and DRI Foundation COO Debora Chodrow look on. 4. DRI Scientific Director Camillo Ricordi, MD, who participated with several other members of DRI faculty and staff, is pictured with Walgreens Market Pharmacy Director Georgia Lehoczky. 5. Colby, Sabrina and Sage Ferris of Team Colby, which raised nearly $6,500 in honor of Colby. 6. Raising more than $5,500 was Team BS (Brother Sister), organized by Jonny Greenwald, far right, in honor of his sister, Lexi, 3rd from left.

No matter what your age or the place you live, you can get involved too! Don’t miss out on a thing. Like us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/DiabetesResearch.org.

HUMANITEEN Julia Gardner raised $21,000 by accepting donations to the Douglas B. Gardner Foundation in lieu of Bat Mitzvah gifts. With the support of her mom, Jennifer Gardner Trulson, Julia used that impressive sum to make her family’s foundation one of the top sponsors of Carnival for a Cure. Julia was eager to support the DRI in honor of two important people in her life who have type 1 diabetes – her friend, Remi Katz, and her step-father, Derek Trulson. The humanitarian teenager is shown here accepting a certificate of appreciation from WCBS-TV news anchor Chris Wragge, the event’s entertaining emcee.

Julia makes it clear that age has no bearing on one’s ability to be an effective fundraiser. Will you follow in her philanthropic footsteps?

EVENTS Fall into Fashion

One of Long Island’s most anticipated events, Fall into Fashion attracted more than 400 guests to Fresh Meadow Country Club in Great Neck, NY, on November 3, 2011. A colorful fashion show was presented by RED Valentino in collaboration with stylist, entrepreneur, designer and philanthropist Steven Dann. Three accomplished women were honored, including Frances B. Reid, director of Environmental Planning for the Town of North Hempstead, Humanitarian Wendy Waller, and Honorary Chairperson Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen M. Rice. According to Co-chairs Fran Helfant, Korey Liebman and Roberta Waller, the event raised more than $235,000 for the DRI.

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EVENTS Pleasures of the Palate

LI Holiday Reception

In South Florida, Miami’s recently revamped restaurant, The Forge, played host to the 13th Annual Pleasures of the Palate dinner on November 11. Known for its dramatic wine cellars and innovative fare, it was the perfect setting for a crowd of foodies and wine enthusiasts to enjoy a four-course dinner paired with wines. According to Chairpersons Tammy and Steven Klein, shown with their daughter and son, Carly and David, the affair attracted 140 guests and raised more than $80,000 for the DRI.

Holiday music and candlelight set the mood for the DRIF’s annual Long Island regional holiday celebration on December 15 at the Muttontown Club in East Norwich, NY. Attendees sampled delectable cuisine as many special guests were recognized for their dedication to the DRI. The holiday reception was graciously hosted by Roberta and Bruce Waller, and awards were presented to Gigi and Michael Otten, Addy Fritzhand, Wendy Waller, Iris and David Feldman, and Allan and Louise Pashcow, among others. Pictured are Roberta and her daughter, Dara Melnick.

All In for a Cure

Empire Ball

The fourth annual All In for a Cure Texas Hold ‘em poker tournament took place on the evening of November 8 at The Grand Havana Room in midtown Manhattan, NY. More than 200 guests enjoyed fine wines, spirits and cigars, while taking in breathtaking views of the city and playing spirited hands of poker. Thanks to the dedication of the co-chairs (pictured l-r) Jordan Dickstein, Samantha Shanken Baker, Troy Gregory, Greg Rosenberg, Ricardo Salmon and Isaac Khafif, the event raised in excess of $300,000, moving cumulative proceeds above the $1 million mark! Among the guests were famed sports personalities Carl Banks and Ron Darling. Neil Rock clinched the winner’s cup, while Dr. Stephen Silver took second place.

At the Empire Ball, the signature event of the DRI Foundation’s Real Estate Division, Chairman Peter L. DiCapua and Special Guest Ron Darling kicked off the organization’s first-ever “Text to Pledge” campaign. Attendees responded with enthusiasm, adding nearly $40,000 to the amount raised and bringing the total to nearly $1 million. Three distinguished notables of the industry were singled out, including Camillo Ricordi Humanitarian Award recipient Michael Rodriguez, Leadership Award recipient William (Billy) Macklowe, and Distinguished Service Award recipient Richard A. Laskowski, who are pictured (l-r) with Darling (second from left.) More than 750 guests were in attendance at the elegant affair, which was held on December 14 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City.

Love and Hope Preview Party

Love and Hope Ball

Commencing their 38th season, the fabulous ladies of Love and Hope raised more than $600,000 at the Love and Hope Preview Party on November 17. Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman welcomed nearly 200 guests to the Diplomat Country Club in Hallandale, FL, and extended heartfelt thanks to Isabel May for underwriting the magnificent evening for the ninth consecutive year. Executive Chairman Sandra Levy announced that International Chairman Barry Gibb would provide a private concert at the 38th Annual Love and Hope Ball. Sabrina Ferris also stood before the guests with her son, Colby, to express their appreciation for the group’s efforts in raising money toward a cure for him and everyone else living with type 1 diabetes.

May is pictured (center) with Neiman Marcus Bal Harbour GM Frances Esquenazi and models displaying jewelry from the store.

Held at the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, the 38th Annual Love and Hope Ball was truly A Family Affair for International Chairmen Barry and Linda Gibb and 600 others in attendance. While honorees shared the spotlight with their children and grandchildren, the music legend shared the stage during an extraordinary, full length concert with his son, Stephen Gibb, and his niece, Samantha Gibb.

According to Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman and Executive Chairman Sandra Levy, the spectacular gala, combined with November’s Preview Party, raised $1 million. During the dinner program, Mistress of Ceremonies Lisa Petrillo recognized the evening’s honorees: Grand Humanitarian Shirley Harris; Humanitarian Honorees Sheila Wohl and Family; Honorary Chairman Isabel May; Love Honorees Tova Leidesdorf and Family; and Hope Honorees Senator Paul and Sandy Steinberg. She also gave thanks to the sponsors: The GEO Group; Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour; Neiman Marcus Bal Harbour; Gold Coast magazine; and Norwegian Cruise Lines. Apropos of the evening’s theme, one other family was honored, the Love and Hope Family (pictured), many members of which have been working on the committee for 38 years.

Champions for Charity Kicking off the holiday season for DRIF supporters on Long Island, Americana Manhasset’s Donna Karan New York store hosted a lively cocktail reception on December 1, where Hal Rubenstein, the charming fashion editor, presented his favorite dresses from the Donna Karan resort collection. Rubenstein was on hand throughout the reception to autograph copies of his new book, 100 Unforgettable Dresses. During the first three days of the month, 25 percent of all purchases made with a Champions for Charity Card at participating Americana Manhasset and Wheatley Plaza stores were donated to the DRI when it was selected as the cardholder's organization of choice. Pictured with Rubenstein (center) are (l-r) Co-chairs Korey Liebman, Eileen Zinn and Fran Helfant, plus Americana Manhasset President Diedre Costa-Major and DRI Foundation COO Deborah Chodrow.

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EVENTS

A Gift of Love… A Gift of Hope

Fitting for the elegant ladies of the Palm Beach Auxiliary, the luxurious Polo Club of Boca Raton played host to the 13th annual A Gift of Love…A Gift of Hope event on February 27 in Boca Raton, FL. The sold-out affair, featuring a luncheon, shopping boutique and card party, raised more than $55,000. While enjoying a delicious lunch, 220 guests heard from Randi Fibus-Caster, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 50 years, as well as her mother, Jeanne Fibus. Pictured are DRIF COO Deborah Chodrow and Renee Aronin, event chairperson.

Since its inception in 1998, the Palm Beach Auxiliary has raised nearly $500,000 for the DRI. Anyone who lives in Palm Beach County and is interested in joining should call the DRI Foundation at 800-321-3437.

Cooking for a Cure Now in its ninth year, Cooking for a Cure was held on April 2 at Page One Restaurant in Glen Cove, NY. Celebrated Chef Jeanine Dimenna once again prepared a gourmet dinner for the guests in attendance.

Chaired by Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, who is a Nassau County Legislator and a DRIF board member, the event honored Jeannie and Greg Trunz of The Swan Club and Special Guest Glen Cove City Councilman Anthony Jimenez. Long Island’s own Kevin Covais, American Idol season five finalist, provided special entertainment. Pictured (l-r) are: Glen Cove Mayor Ralph Suozzi, Covais, DeRiggi-Whitton, Ellen McCormack, Jeannie and Greg Trunz, Anthony Jimenez and Kathy Jimenez.

American Fine Wine Competition Gala The DRI was thrilled to benefit for the second year from the auctions and raffles of the American Fine Wine Competition Gala, the brainchild of Shari Gherman and Sara and Monty Preiser. This year, the trio “kicked it up a notch” with the participation of Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse, who prepared the evening’s main course on stage. A lottery was held to determine which lucky eight attendees would be seated on stage with Emeril. The extensive silent auction offered wine baskets from boutique style wineries across the nation, as well as exotic vacation packages and more. Presided over by Alan Kalter of the Late Show with David Letterman, the live auction featured such items as a dream dinner prepared by renowned chefs in the area. World famous Saxophone player Dayve Stewart & the Vibe entertained, and close to $65,000 was raised for the DRI during this unforgettable evening presented by Patriot National Insurance Group. Pictured with DRIF’s Robert Pearlman are (l-r) Gherman, Kalter and Lagasse.

Sportsmen for Charity Benefiting the DRI for the tenth year, the Sportsmen for Charity sporting clay fundraiser was held on Friday, April 20 at the Pawling Mountain Club in Pawling, NY. The club, bordered by a 1500-acre expanse, features panoramic views of the Appalachian Trail National Park. Chaired, as always, by Charles Guigno, the sold-out event started with a hearty breakfast and practice rounds. It continued with a friendly competition among sportsmen, followed by a cocktail reception in the main lodge, where guests enjoyed dessert, coffee, wine, cheese, cigars and awards. Pictured with Charlie Guigno (far right) are DRI Foundation Long Island Regional Director Tony Childs, Phil DeLorenzo, and Charlie’s grandson, Joseph Ferrigno.

Spin For a Cure On April 22, the first annual Jake, Jesse and Ally Rosenberg “Spin For A Cure” took place at the Maxfit studio in Cresskill, NJ. The entire Rosenberg clan, including mom Denise and dad Greg, cycled with 50 friends in two 55-minute sessions, led by instructor Jennifer Sherman. The idea for this event came straight from the Rosenberg children. (Greg co-chairs the Northeast region’s All in for a Cure poker event.) On the Spin for a Cure invitation, Jake, Jesse, and Ally had this to say about diabetes, “…this terrible disease has changed the lives of our family. The DRI is our best hope for a cure.” Thank you to the Rosenberg family for getting the word out and raising funds in honor of Jake (14), who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes a year ago.

Pictured (l-r) are Greg Rosenberg, Jake Rosenberg, Ally Rosenberg, Denise Rosenberg, Jennifer Sherman and Jesse Rosenberg.

Randi Fibus-Caster Pro Am Diabetes Golf Classic While people all over the world were going green on Earth Day, friends of the DRI in Boca Raton, FL, were raising ‘green’ on the green! According to Jeannie and Ken Fibus, chairpersons and presenting sponsors, the event’s proceeds surpassed $120,000. Named for their daughter, the Randi Fibus-Caster Pro Am Diabetes Golf Classic provided the opportunity for amateur golfers to play alongside pros. It also featured a cocktail reception and dinner, where two children with type 1 diabetes, Brooke Miller, 13, and Josh Espinosa, 8, thanked the 200 guests in attendance for helping the DRI move closer to a cure. Randi Fibus-Caster, the event’s namesake, said, “In the past decade I’ve received two islet cell transplants at the Diabetes Research Institute, and now I take no insulin. I am living proof of the science and research taking place there.” Randi is pictured with her husband, Ron Caster (l) and her parents (r).

Vince Wilfork’s Draft Day Fundraiser New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork and his wife, Bianca, (both pictured center) welcomed 900 fans to Pinz in Milford, MA, on April 26 for their annual Draft Day Fundraiser. The sold-out affair featured autographsigning sessions and photo opportunities with Wilfork and several of his teammates, including Kevin Faulk, Jerod Mayo, Ron Brace, Patrick Chung, Gerard Warren, Kyle Love, Ras-I Dowling, Devin McCourty, Sterling Moore, Ryan Mallet, Zoltan Mesko, Matthew Slater and Sergio Brown. The event, which was emceed by Boston Channel 5 news anchor Bianca de la Garza, also offered unlimited bowling, food and the perfect ambience for watching the NFL draft. Thanks to title sponsor EMD Millipore and the generosity of many others, the event raised $200,000. Though Wilfork has been fundraising for the cause ever since his father passed away from complications of diabetes a decade ago, he called this “the best year yet.”

Shell Key West Fishing Challenge The Shell Key West Fishing Challenge was created 24 years ago by Jo and Hayden Blaylock, founder and CEO of Blaylock Oil Company. The event started benefiting the DRI after their grandson, Matthew Sanchez, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and has now raised close to $500,000 toward a cure. Just as they have the past six years, DRI representatives, including Dr. Luca Inverardi, joined hundreds of Shell executives, employees, wholesalers and corporate sponsors April 26-29 on the gorgeous waters surrounding Key West for a deep sea fishing competition. Thanks to the leadership of Crystal Blaylock, Matthew’s mother and the event coordinator, the long weekend endeavor was as big of a success as ever.

The Crystal Ball Now in its 14th year, The Crystal Ball was held on April 28 at The Garden City Hotel in Garden City, NY. John C. Doscas (center) served as Crystal Ball Honoree, while Nicholas H. Racanelli (left) received The Gillin Family Humanitarian Award and Charles Rizzo (right) received the Distinguished Service Award. Each of these three gentlemen spoke passionately about the cause, sharing with the 325 people in attendance how diabetes has personally touched their lives. According to Co-chairs Bruce Waller, Michael Genatt and Allan L. Pashcow, $640,000 was raised for the DRI.

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DRIfocus

Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Diabetes Research Institute Foundation

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation National Office 200 South Park Road Suite 100 Hollywood, FL 33021 address service requested

CALENDAR Buy In for a Cure June 14, 2012 / LONG ISLAND This Texas Hold'em Tournament will be held at The Garden City Hotel and feature an evening of games, prizes, sweepstakes, food, wine and spirits.

Mastering Your Diabetes June-August-October 2012 / FLORIDA This 5-day intensive course is specifically for patients who inject insulin. June classes, from the 18th-22nd are geared for the under 18 crowd, while the August 23rd-27th and October 18th-22nd classes are for adults. Five classes offered every year.

For more information, call Arleen Barreiros at 305-243-3696.

Ron Darling Celebrity Golf Classic July 9, 2012 / LONG ISLAND DRIF National Board member and former Major League pitcher Ron Darling hosts this afternoon of golf followed by cocktails and an awards dinner, to be held at the Pine Hollow Country Club.

For information on the events or to make reservations, visit DiabetesResearch.org or call one of the DRI Foundation offices listed below.

Rod Gilbert DRI Golf Classic August 6, 2012 / LONG ISLAND To be held at Pine Hollow Country Club, this event will honor Sam Barretta and feature an afternoon of golf followed by an awards dinner and a silent auction. It is co-chaired by Eric Reeps and Bob Zuckerman.

Gold Coast Concours / Bimmerstock September 9, 2012 / LONG ISLAND Hundreds of exotic cars and BMWs will be showcased throughout the day at this magnificent exhibit, to be held at the City of Glen Cove’s downtown business district and presented by Martino Auto Concepts/ MAC Auto Couture of Glen Cove. Join us from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine.

Phil Peterson’s Key West Poker Run September 13–16, 2012 / FLORIDA Phil Peterson will host his 40th annual motorcycle run, which starts in Miami and finishes in Key West for South Florida’s biggest biker party weekend of the year. Participants can make stops along the way to

purchase poker hands in hopes of winning a new Harley!

Brindisi Coalition for the Cure September 15, 2012 / NEW YORK Attorney Louis Brindisi will hold his second event at The Fort Schyler Club in Utica in honor of his son, Louis Thomas Brindisi, 14, who was diagnosed with type 1 at age 11.

The Donaldson Organization Golf Outing October 1, 2012 / NEW YORK The Donaldson Organization will host a golf outing at a private golf club in Westchester County, NY. A full day of golf will be followed by a cocktail reception and dinner.

is a publication of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation.

Spring 2012 / Volume 39 / Issue 2

Marketing & Communications Dept.

Lori Weintraub, APR Lauren Schreier Natasha Norris Laurie Cummings

Contributors Gary Kleiman Jill Salter Aimee Siegel-Harris Mitra Zehtab, M.D. Stacy Zolotin

Design Franz Franc Design Group Inc.

Empire Ball December 12, 2012 / NEW YORK This annual black-tie event at the Grand Hyatt Hotel is the social event of the season for New York City’s real estate industry.

Fall Into Fashion November 1, 2012 / LONG ISLAND The annual luncheon, to be held at the beautiful Fresh Meadow Country Club at 11 a.m., will feature a runway fashion show, presented by Oscar de la Renta. Chaired by Barbara Hatz, the event will have fabulous oneof-a-kind auction items on display.

DRIfocus

Photography Patty Daniels DRIF volunteers Marc S. Levine Joe Marzo Sarah Merians Photography and Video Company Andrew Milne Tom Stepp Claude Zick

All in for a Cure November 13, 2012 / NEW YORK To be held at the Grand Havana Room, the fifth annual Texas Hold’em tournament for poker enthusiasts will feature vintage wines, fine cigars, hors d’oeuvres and panoramic views of New York City.

The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation supports the Diabetes Research Institute at the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, whose mission is to develop and rapidly apply the most promising research to treat and cure those now living with diabetes. To obtain additional information or request copies of DRIfocus, please call (800) 321-3437 or e-mail lweintraub@drif.org, or visit DiabetesResearch.org.

DIABETES RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOUNDATION National Office 200 South Park Road, Suite 100 Hollywood, FL 33021 Phone: (954) 964-4040 Fax: (954) 964-7036 info@drif.org

Northeast Regional Office 381 Park Avenue South, Suite 1118 New York, NY 10016 Phone: (212) 888-2217 Fax: (212) 888-2219 neregion@drif.org

Long Island Regional Office 410 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 201 Jericho, NY 11753 Phone: (516) 822-1700 Fax: (516) 822-3570 liregion@drif.org