Mr. Diabetes® Wake Up And Walk® Tour "Where is He Now ?" Maps
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OVERVIEW Walking from Madeira Beach (St. Petersburg) Florida, Mr. Diabetes® completed the first leg of his incredible walk for diabetes awareness on October 11 at 12:00 noon when he walked into the Pacific Ocean at La Jolla Shores, San Diego, CA. (a walk of 2,532.3 miles). He is far north now, having reached Seattle, Washington, which was the second leg of THE WALK™. Now, he makes a right turn and is headed east. The total projected miles for the Mr. Diabetes® Wake Up and Walk® Tour is 10,000+ miles, and the projected time to complete his epic walk for diabetes awareness is 6+ years! Mr. Diabetes® Diary MR. DIABETES® WAKE UP AND WALK® TOUR april2006 UPDATE: April 2006 LOCATION: Fayetteville, NY TOTAL MILES WALKED: 6963.8 Miles Okay, everybody, THE WALK™ has resumed!!!! My first walking day of the season began in Seneca Falls, NY on April 17. But, before I give you the blow-by-blow of this fantastic first week, I have a few announcements to make. First, I want to thank the two families who looked after me for the entire winter I was camped in the Buffalo, NY area. One of them you are already familiar w/ because he is a regular in the E-Lerts™ newsletter. He came to me last summer when I was camped in the Erie, PA area and straightened out the disaster my computer had become. He simplified all the complicated and unnecessary wiring that was making connection and communication virtually impossible. All I do now is flick a switch!!!! Long story short, he has proven to be so knowledgeable about computers, satellites and all things electronics that I engaged him to write a regular article in this newsletter. He agreed. It is called: “KEVIN’S TECH TIPS” and has become one of our readers’ most popular columns because of the easy to understand helpful hints he includes in each issue. His name is Kevin McBride. His daughter, Gypsy, has been a delight. The other family I speak of has been equally important to me, personally, as well as a great friend of DDF. I am referring to The Robert (Bobby) Krulls, which includes Barb, the twins and Jennifer. While Kevin was working on the electronics and wiring in the RV (my home and office on the road), Bobby was saving the RV from total devastation due to improper maintenance and neglect suffered during the previous 1½ years while out on the road. He repaired, replaced and constructed sub-flooring, flooring and built-in cabinets that now house a complete video center that will allow me to edit, copy and create a variety of film scenarios based on the coverage taken daily. (Kevin and Jennifer Krull) are responsible for setting it up and teaching me the ins-and-outs of how to effectively work the equipment, which allows me full creativity in all mediums involving 8mm tape, CD and DVD.) Additionally, Bobby has fixed, or replaced, all mechanical needs, which were also considerable. And a very special thanx to Jennifer who took charge of the many hundreds of hours of 8mm tapes by converting them to DVD and cataloguing them. Now, people can visit our home office(s) and view THE WALK™ in our “video room” while surrounded by the dozens of Proclamations presented to me by federal, state and local municipalities, which hang on the walls (thank you Angela for your recently acquired framing and hanging skills). TOUR MANAGER(S) And now to introduce you to my new Tour Manager(s), Shirley and Russ Barriger. They are a retired couple who hail from ‘the thumb’ of Michigan – Unionville. Actually, retired is an inaccurate word because this gig is everything but easy. However, after spending a VERY active week (plus) together it is clear to me they have the heart and soul necessary to handle the extraordinary demands that come with the territory, as well as the personality(ies), intelligence and work ethic necessary to deal with the various aspects of this gig. Some of these responsibilities include maintenance of all vehicles, media relations, filming and picture taking, coordinating my appearances to a variety of audiences, mapping out my walking routes (which take into account safety, reaching maximum populations, selecting campgrounds) and a whole lot more. They bring to THE WALK™ a wonderful mix of faith and family (parents of five and grandparents of eight) who fully support their going off on this adventure. They have a son who is a Type I diabetic, so they have a very clear understanding of the difficulties faced by diabetics every day. They are lifelong farmers who switched to organic farming in 1993!! In as much as diabetes is also a metabolic disorder their knowledge of farming, and especially ‘organic’ farming, brings a valuable addition to the message(s) Mr. Diabetes® is delivering. And because of their lifelong farming experience they are a living example of the benefits of an active lifestyle. In addition to farming Russ worked as a power plant operator for almost 31 years. He retired from there in June, 2000 and continued on with full-time farming. Shirley was a full-time Mother for her five children, she also volunteered as a crises pregnancy councilor for the last 10 years. Also, she, along with Russ, has volunteered at numerous Church functions for all their lives. You will learn a lot more about this wonderful couple as we continue on in THE WALK™. I look forward to sharing the final 3000+ miles of this epic journey with Shirley and Russ. Welcome aboard!!!!! THE WALK™ As you can imagine, there is a lot of excitement building up about getting back on the road. We all feel that the third and final winter interruption is behind us and that the final 3000+ miles will continue “smoothly” (reality requires me to put “ “ around “smoothly”. I’m an optimist, but also VERY much the realist!!). April 14 was my first interview on Syracuse, NY radio with the popular Bill Colley of WFBL-FM (1390). That set the stage because at that point I knew I would soon be out walking. Two days later (April 16) was my next radio interview – WSYR-AM (570). It, too, was great!!! The Host of the show is Wendy Meyerson and her co-host was Dr. Steven Wexler. The topic focused on nutrition and the effect ‘proper’ nutrition has on diabetes, along with proper medical oversight and physical fitness. Both hosts are very powerful and knowledgeable voices in this field. Catch the show every Sunday morning at 10am. Shirley and Russ had located a campground that would be close to the walking route of RTE 20/5 and located just east of Syracuse in Verona. That was their first chore, because very few campgrounds are open this time of year. The morning of April 17th I interviewed with Reporter Amber Smith who has a regular feature column every Tuesday in the Health Section of Syracuse’s premier newspaper, The Post-Standard. The article will appear in the Tuesday April 25, 2006 Edition. It did, and Amber did a fine job of accurate reporting and captured the fun side of the interview. I particularly enjoyed her including my direct quote of : “… open my refrigerator and you’d think you were stepping into Elmer Fudd’s garden. Big time fruits and vegetables.” And other quotes………….. On the 17th I took my first official steps of the new walking season at exactly the same location I finished last October due to raw, wet, windy and unrelenting bad weather – The Starlite Motel in Seneca Falls. It was much too dangerous to be on the roads under those conditions without a Tour Manager – I was alone! (as I had been for several months). During those “off” months I wasn’t idle. I trained for and completed the NYC Marathon on November 6, 2005 w/ friend Ellen Brohard (Gallagher). I also did a lot of walking with friend Angela Aitken both in Canada and a few Florida beaches. As I say, “I love to walk – I walk to live – I’ll die before I’ll quit™” !!!! Well, Shirley and Russ were with me now, the weather has improved and we were all feeling relief to finally be back at it. But, I must admit, that after being somewhat idle during those long winter months, it was a bit difficult to get into the rhythm. Also, we were working together for the first time, although that fact was barely noticeable. I’ll explain… Before getting started, Russ had arranged for a radio interview with Ted Baker of WSFW-FM (1110). That was fun. Then those first steps…. Well, I’ve got to say, those steps were quite comfortable for the first mile, or so. But, for some reason I was having pain in the small of my back. At that point I knew the initial adjustment period would be uncomfortable – probably for a couple of weeks. But, I had experienced these types of pain before and I knew it was just a matter of reconditioning those muscles. Muscle memory is very real and tends to respond in a positive manner in a short time. (Each walking day it has improved considerably and is not an issue, now – 5 walking days later.)
Anyway, a few miles into the
day’s walk we were greeted by photographer Jennifer Meyers of the Auburn
Citizen and shortly after by Reporter Anne Gleason. Yup, Russ had
arranged for that one, too. (And my compliments to both women for the
great The next two days were 10.1 miles each. It felt good to be out and meeting lots and lots of folks. I’m into my fifth year of THE WALK and I’m always gratified at the number of people who come out to say “hello” and share their time and concerns. It started out that way from the very first steps when walking through Florida. It doesn’t get old!!!! April 20th was a bit different. It began with me having an insulin reaction just as I was about to start the day’s walk!! I typically get 2-3 of these every month. It’s a result of me trying to maintain good glucose control; every so often it backfires. Insulin reactions occur when I take too much insulin for the food I’m about to eat or when I’m trying to bring down a ‘high’ reading. They are characterized by feeling cold and ‘clammy’, weak/faint, shaky, nauseous, etc. To counter these reactions I usually take Gluco-Tabs. These are tablets specifically designed for such moments. Sometimes I will take candy or a sweet drink, such as orange juice. This time I ate 2 apples (Golden Delicious – my favorite), a few Gluco-Tabs, and Shirley gave me some chocolate she was saving, apparently, for such a time. Like I said, her experience with her own son’s diabetes taught her to be prepared!! She (and Russ) remained calm and watchful ready to take any necessary emergency step(s). I’m VERY fortunate she was there – she knew exactly what to watch for and exactly what to do!!! There can be serious consequences to ‘insulin reactions’ if they are not addressed immediately, including becoming unconscious, or in extreme cases, even death!!! Still, after all was said and done, we managed to walk 7.3 miles. And now, of course, I can relax knowing that I’m in good hands in the event of emergency – and that is HUGE!!!!!!!!! The 21st was a change of pace; an early call for a TV interview in studio. Now, those who know me know I am a slow starter in the morning – seems to be my natural rhythm. Even when I was on active duty in the Coast Guard Reserves in the mid 1960’s and up at 5am every day for weeks and months at a time, it would take only one day for me to lapse back into wanting to sleep late. Like I said, my “natural rhythm”. The interview was with WTVH-TV CH 5 (CBS affiliate). There I interviewed with Janelle Reichert. Typically, these morning interviews only last for 2-3 minutes. But, I would get up 7 days a week to get that precious air time in order to get out the message of AWARENESS + ACTION = PREVENTION®. Business meetings with a nutritional supplement catalogue house to review my new line of Mr. Diabetes® supplements took up the rest of the day. April 22 found me at WTSM-TV CH 3 (NBC and UPN affiliate) at 8:45am. Just over 2 minutes but it does reach a huge audience. It was another fun interview. The Reporter/Anchor was Christina Chatalian. From here Shirley, Russ and I went to a scheduled appearance at Natur-Tyme, a one-of-a-kind “naturals” food store. This is a 10,000 sq. ft. store that caters to the ever-increasing population of people looking to improve their healthy lifestyles. Here people can get advice from well-qualified experts in the field of nutrition. Today was Earth Day and we enjoyed a variety of activities to celebrate it. We were there for over 4 hours meeting dozens of people and talking about diabetes, THE WALK™, Defeat Diabetes Foundation, nutrition, fitness and more. This is typical of Natur-Tyme – creating interactive happenings, which involve the Syracuse, NY community. RIGHT-ON owner, Wendy Myerson, Merchandising & Purchasing Manager Robyn Miller and staff!!!!!!!!!!!!!! [As an ASIDE: It was a good day to be inside as it was raining very hard!!! But, when I returned to my RV I found it had leaked inside. I spent the next hour mopping up and figuring a way to contain the in-flow of water. Finally, I was successful. Sort of… When I woke up the next morning I had to repeat the exercise. So goes the life of being on the road…. HHMMMMmmmmmmm………………………………]. I celebrated my 61st birthday April 23rd, Sunday by walking 9.7 miles. This walk took me through Syracuse and into the center of Fayetteville, NY. Tuesday, April 25th, I had the opportunity to address a group of senior citizens at The McChesney Recreation Center in Syracuse, NY. There we were welcomed by Director Mimi Pavetto. The invitation was initiated by Touchstone Health’s Marketing Representative Don Romano and Manager of Medicare Sales Michael McFee. Although I was asked to speak for 30 minutes about diabetes, THE WALK™, Defeat Diabetes Foundation and my personal experience(s) with diabetes, this group kept me there for 1½ hours in a very lively Q&A. It was a lot of fun!! Thank you Helen, Rose and all you others…………… The rains kept coming so we decided not to walk. April 25th was another fabulous day. It began with an invitation to the Ida Benderson Senior Center in downtown Syracuse, NY. Here, again, I addressed a number of seniors who entertained me as much as I enjoyed speaking with them about diabetes issues. Again, the invitation came from Mike McFee and Don Romano of Touchstone Health. Although Senior Center Director Deborah A. Bova wasn’t there to personally greet us because she was off to Albany on Center business, we were graciously received by John O’Connor. More great fun!!!! This was followed by a visit to meet with Mayor Matthew J. Driscoll. Here I received a Proclamation declaring April 25th as Mr. Diabetes® Day in Syracuse, NY. We talked briefly about the problem of diabetes in his community and I presented him with a few items including a Wake Up and Walk Tour hat, theme song and the “Diabetes and Your Community” white paper that outlines the costs and some practical solutions to preventing diabetes in his community. This event was covered by News 10, a Time Warner 24 hour cable news channel: Reporter: Bill Carey Senior Photojournalist: Tom Walters. Also, representing WTHV CH 5 (CBS affiliate) Photojournalist: Jason Makay. Now, that wraps up the first week of activities for resuming THE WALK™. This did not happen all by itself. It takes a lot of work from a very supportive staff back in our DDF home office: Jerry, Lisa, Marilyn and Carol. Consultant Ron Moran. And a BIG HIGH FIVE to our Public Outreach Director Dawn Swidorski who is working closely with Shirley and Russ to keep this road show moving. Dawn also arranged the senior center and Natur-Tyme appearances, the meeting with the nutrition catalogue company, TV, radio and newspaper interviews and meeting with Mayor Driscoll. I can hardly wait for next week!!!??????
Good
Health. Mr. Diabetes® – January 2006 Update The MR. DIABETES® WAKE UP AND WALK® TOUR LOCATION: Seneca Falls, NY TOTAL MILES: 6916.6 miles Andy Mandell, Mr. Diabetes®, doesn't have access to his computer at the moment. Even though Andy is in winter-mode, (no official walking), he has been working with the Lions Clubs in Toronto, Canada on some long-range plans and has given presentations about diabetes. One of the talks that Andy Mandell gave recently was in New York City. The New York City Human Resources Administration, Office of Personnel was holding lunchtime presentations to instruct, to encourage early detection and to improve the overall health of their staff. They wanted to include the topic Diabetes Awareness and have a workshop presentation to inform staff about the disease. One of the many letters he and we have received after a Mr. Diabetes®, Andy Mandell, presentation: Dawn (Swidorski, Public Outreach Director)
Thank you for
arranging to have Mr. Mandell expedite our Diabetes Workshop. Andy, Mr.
Diabetes® was terrific. We received wonderful feedback from our staff
after the workshop where 70 employees attended. Many of the employees
stayed after the presentation for a one on one with Andy. The Defeat
Diabetes®
Screening Test was given to each participant. The extra leaflets were
placed in the employee mailboxes thus involving all of our staff. I
sincerely believe that many of our employees have been helped today.
Andy's demeanor and voice was just enough to make people sit quietly and
pay attention. Thank you and God Bless You!
Good Health, Mr. Diabetes® – December 2005 Update The MR. DIABETESâ WAKE UP AND WALKâ TOUR LOCATION: Seneca Falls, NY TOTAL MILES: 6916.6 miles Not much to report. The early winter snows here in central/northern New York have prevented me from walking. So, it looks like I’m on hold till the snow thaws in the Spring, as far as THE WALKä is concerned. However, this gig is about a lot more than walking………………The new DDF website is coming closer to launch. Our Program Director, Lisa Rasolt’s been working VERY hard getting this extremely complicated project to where it is now. For a preview, go to the site: www.DefeatDiabetes.org and see for yourself. I am actively talking with a number of “diabetic healthy” situations. You will soon see a number of these “diabetic healthy” products and services profiled on the pages of this new site. Also, some of my sponsors, will most probably have me traveling to different parts of the country doing speaking engagements. These things are still in the planning stages, as the early winter snows were unexpected. But, I am hoping it happens because it is important to keep diabetics and pre-diabetics up on latest developments. Topics, such as, learning the benefits of Lantus insulin, as I have; and not to be afraid of insulin injections; the importance of the A1C test for ALL diabetics and why we should strive to keep that number under 7%; remembering to take the two minute on-line Defeat Diabetesâ Screening Test; help local officials learn community involvement and improvement from our White Paper; and so much more. Meanwhile, I have been back to Toronto, Canada to meet with my friends at The Lions Club, Clarence Haynes and Dexter Waldron. And have added a new member to the mix, Michael Sarin, MD. Lots of interesting things brewing there, folks. Stay tuned. I didn’t meet w/ Bob and Trudi Banting this last visit. (See UPDATE for September, 2005 for our last meeting and the valiant effort The Bantings are putting forth to save this historic landmark.) But, much progress has been made in saving the Banting Homestead. Bills before Parliament have passed two readings and have the support of all three political Parties. Not a ‘done deal’, yet, but lookin’ good!!!! Let us all continue to support The Banting Family and this great effort. A successful resolution will benefit ALL diabetics worldwide!!! I will be meeting w/ Bob and Trudi in Toronto after the first of the year. Meanwhile, go to their website: www.madhunt.com to voice your support for this cause. But, for now, on behalf of THE MR. DIABETESâ WAKE UP AND WALKâ TOUR team, I want to thank you all for your generous support throughout the year of 2005, both financially and through your encouragement. And to all of you I wish a most fabulous HAPPY and HEALTHY holiday season. 2006 is upon us – let’s all work together, you and us here at Defeat Diabetes Foundation, to make it the BEST YEAR YET!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Good Health. Mr. Diabetes® – November 2005 Update The MR. DIABETESâ WAKE UP AND WALKâ TOUR LOCATION: Seneca Falls, New York TOTAL
MILES: 6916.6 It only APPEARS I haven’t logged any miles since the last UPDATE in October. The fact is I HAVE walked a few; I just haven’t been adding them to THE WALKä because these miles haven’t gone toward making any forward progress on THE WALKä. Although, they have been vitally important to the mission. And there’s been a whole lot of other activity not normally experienced on this gig. I’ll explain…………………. A couple of months ago I sought, successfully, to get registered to participate in the New York City Marathon. Next to the Boston Marathon, the oldest marathon event in the United States (1896). The NYC Marathon is recognized around the world as a “world class” event attended by the world’s best runners - AND walkers!!!!!!!!!!!! For those unfamiliar with marathons, they are all the same distance, 26.2 miles. They are road races that occur in various locations around the world with each providing its own unique challenges. Sometimes the route is hilly, which favors a certain type athlete. Sometimes the route is level, as is the case of the NYC Marathon, and favors speed racers. Or, as is often the case, a generous mix of the two. There are times the weather is stormy, or cold, or hot, or a beautiful sunny day in the 60’s, as was the case in the NYC Marathon. But, whatever the conditions, a scheduled marathon ALWAYS takes place. I’m getting ahead of myself…………… I stopped walking, as far as forward progress of THE WALKä, in mid October. The weather was non-stop rain for weeks and walking the roadways was quite dangerous, as well as a good chance my chronic bronchitis could come back on me (cold, wet weather tends to cause it to return). So, I elected to return to Buffalo where the RV was/is being overhauled by friend Bobby Krull. Here I could continue to prepare for the marathon. (Please see the UPDATE for October for those activities through to October 25.) I decided that it was important to the “mission” I get as much visibility during the marathon as I could possibly get. So, Bobby took me to his friend Tim Cook, owner of Dove Tech & Machine, Inc, a metal fabricating company in Orchard Park, NY to help find someone to embroider two of my bright international orange safety vests w/ www.DefeatDiabetes.org These would be worn by me and my aide, Ellen Brohard (Gallagher) during the marathon. It was a last minute decision on my part to do this, but everyone rallied. Tim got a professional seamstress, plus-plus-plus, Cathy Horn of Hamburg, NY to get the job done. And she did a great job!!!!! We found out during the marathon just how effective it was. HUGE!!!! The rest of the month was spent getting ready for the trip to New York: getting cameras checked out (2 Sony camcorders, a Sony digital and a Cannon digital); having the junky support vehicle serviced for the 450 miles ride from Buffalo to New York (I don’t fly); packing; catching up on computer activity, as I have come to expect no ability to get on-line when I’m out on the road; and, somehow, a workout or two. I arrived in New York City on November 2. Dawn Swidorski, our DDF Public Outreach Director, was to arrive later that night. She was there to help work with my sponsor’s PR firm, EuroRSCG Life PR and media interviews. She is becoming a regular fixture at these major market events. This was not a vacation for any of us. We were there to make noise about diabetes awareness, and that’s exactly what we did. Dawn is dynamic and knows how to get the job done. The Euro folks are no slouches, either. They are a large international Public Relations firm and are a highly professional and effective organization. The client they are representing produces an insulin I have been using as part of my insulin therapy -- Lantus, which is a long-acting insulin. I have been using this insulin to help keep my A1C test results of my glucose levels at, or near, the targeted 7% or below. I've been using this insulin therapy since July, 2002. We were checked into the Paramount Hotel on W46th Street in Times Square. It is an antiquated hotel, but equipped with all the niceties you would expect at a hotel in the heart of The Big Apple. The personnel there is what really made it work for me. It began with a curbside greeting from Brian who arranged for my car to be parked, followed by assistance with my two carts of baggage by Clayton Delsion. At other points during my stay I was also assisted by Joseph (Joe) Lamont. Turns out that both of these men had recently completed a 100 miles bike ride around New York’s five boroughs for a charitable event. Quite an accomplishment by any standards. The next day, November 3, began w/ the limousine service picking up me and Dawn and taking us to the Euro offices at 200 Madison Ave. There we were greeted by Sr. Account Executive Ann Blumenstock. Ann has been working closely with Dawn for many months coordinating this “visit”. Ann assists our old friend Elizabeth Baxter. We met with Elizabeth when in Detroit. (See June, 2005 UPDATE) And, at this time, we met for the first time face-to-face, Sr. V.P. Lee Davies. Lee has been on the front lines with our own Ron Moran to arrange and cement the personal services arrangements between MR. DIABETESâ and Sanofi/Aventis. After the introductions we immediately began to address the business at hand – make noise for diabetes awareness. At 10am I began a one hour refresher course w/ media consultant, Colleen M. Growe. She is president and driving force behind her company, CMG Productions, Inc. – 495 West Street, New York, NY. This time we did the course over the phone. The first time, however, we met in person on June 21 in Detroit. She flew in for a three hour session on teaching me only some of the critical ins-and-outs of media relations. And, although I have done many hundreds of interviews with TV, radio and print media, I learned more in our brief time together than I ever thought possible. This “refresher” was equally valuable. Immediately following was a radio interview on the Touch Of Grey Show, a syndicated show hosted by Richard Neer. After lunch Dawn, Ann and I were scheduled for a 2pm interview with Sr. Editor Fran Carpentier of PARADE MAGAZINE. This had been arranged by Dawn before she left San Francisco. The interview lasted for more than an hour, but it seemed like only a few minutes. This interview will go down as one of the best, most relaxing and fun interviews I’ve had to date. As busy as Fran is, and it is quite clear how busy she must be by just looking at the end product – a weekly publication that reaches 75 million readers, she made us all feel like we were in her home, as friends. And her style of interview was unique, as well. While she covered all the usual points, and several not touched upon in other media interviews, she kept us smiling and laughing with interesting and fun anecdotes. The following day, November 4, came VERY early, as morning usually does. It was an early morning call as “we” were attempting to get some coverage on The Today Show in Rockefeller Center. That’s the show hosted by Katie Couric, Matt Louer and weatherman Al Roker. Ann was there with protégé, Sr. Account Executive Chris Frates (EuroRSCG), at 5am to secure a place in line. This is the line of people who gather to appear in a fenced off area outside the Today Show studio. Here people show up in costumes, signs, etc. for a chance at national exposure for their “cause”. Well, MR. DIABETESâ was there, too. I arrived with Dawn at 6am and we all stood at the front of a very long line till 7am when we were ushered into the holding pen. The Euro art department had made a sign for me: I’M MR. DIABETESâ AND I WALKED 7000 MILES TO BE HERE TODAY! We hoped for some national attention, as this was New York City Marathon week and I was a registered participant. Although I met and shook hands with Al and Matt I didn’t make it on camera. But, I heard reports that the sign DID make a brief appearance(s). At 10:15am I had a radio interview with The Jim Buchanan Show (WICC-AM). And that was followed by another radio interview with the nationally syndicated Frankie Boyer Show. This show originates in my hometown, Boston, MA. Frankie was particularly generous with her time, as we chatted during the commercial breaks and had some wonderful suggestions to help me deal with some of my neuropathy issues. A very caring woman. Later that night marked the arrival of my very dear friend, Ellen Brohard (Gallagher). Ellen left husband, Thomas, back in his lab in Bend, Oregon and ventured across the U.S. to be my AIDE in the upcoming NYC Marathon. I was registered through the Achilles Track Club, which is a non-profit club established to assist persons with disabilities to participate in this and similar events around this country and the world. Dawn worked closely with their VP Mary Bryant to make this possible for me. One of their requirements for participants under their banner is to have an AIDE in case the athlete needs medical, or any other kind of assistance. As a diabetic with my existing medical problems, which make it quite impractical for me to run, I walk. In as much as I was a VERY late entry, to get someone to assist me was also a last minute effort. After all, anyone planning to do a marathon distance has been training for a very long time. Running, or walking, 26.2 miles is universally recognized as the definitive distance requiring both mental AND physical endurance. There are words to describe those who perform “ultra” events beyond marathon(s), but you won’t hear them from me, other than “ambitious”. So, to have Ellen commit to this was a most pleasant surprise. She had never done a marathon, but her regular workouts matched what a marathoner would do in preparation for this distance. And I suspected she had the mental strength and fortitude to finish the course. However, that had yet to be determined?! The test was coming. Also, she had the extra responsibility of carrying cameras, clothing, walkie-talkies, phones, special drinks and medical equipment in preparation for various eventualities. I, of course, also carried some of this, but because I need my walking pole to assist my balance, I only had one free hand to work with. I affectionately refer to her as “my mule”. Additionally, we were both wearing my trademark international orange vest(s), which had www.DefeatDiabetes.org on front and back. And I had a smaller size sign pinned to my back, which read the same as the sign brought to The Today Show (above). NOVEMBER 6, 2005: NEW YORK CITY MARATHONThe weather was perfect, as far as I was concerned – temperature was upper 60’s and maybe into the low 70’s and lower 60’s by the end of the course, and sunny. Most runners prefer low 60’s and I probably would have, too, except for the fact that I’ve been out in miserable cold and rain for 6+ weeks. And the course was flat and dry. Color me happy!!!! Between the 16th and 17th mile I was scheduled to exit the course to film some “B” ROLL. This is film usually 5-6 minutes in its edited form, to send to media outlets intended to promote the ‘diabetes awareness’ message. That took about 25 minutes. Additional footage was shot at other points on the course to be incorporated into this footage. The EuroRSCG team was there to share that moment. Included here was Lee Davies, Elizabeth Baxter and husband Mike, Ann Blumenstock, Josclyn Denise Scalzo and Jemini Patel. And, of course, Dawn, working two cameras. The camera crew consisted of Jimmy G. Kuznetsov and Robert Sullivan of Skyline News Television at 226 West 47th Street New York, NY. After that it was only ten miles to the finish line. We reached the finish line as we started – together. It took 8 hours and 2 minutes. And we each received a medal. Ann took us out for a fine meal afterwards. Then, it was time to crash. The next day we were up and walking around Times Square. A testament to proper training, which includes proper medical oversight, proper nutrition and proper exercise. And we proved once again, diabetics are neither ‘helpless nor hopeless’; we can do anything anyone else can do!!! And, incidentally, during the marathon I was testing a couple of products. I do this typically on a regular basis – test different products and services. However, it’s not advisable to do this in an event of this nature. But, I did!! I wore a sock that is the most incredible sock I’ve ever put on my feet – EVER!!!!!! Diabetics MUST always pamper their feet, as lack of special care can, and does, cause serious consequences, the most serious of which is amputation. In the future you will be hearing more about this special sock for diabetics. The other product I took was an all natural herbal drink. I didn’t read anything past the ingredients, which I knew to be safe. I didn’t want to have any specific pre-conceived ideas on how, exactly, I should look for reaction(s) and/or results. I didn’t realize until the end of the marathon that I wasn’t fatigued, as I expected I would be. NOTE: I did NOT say “…as fatigued as….”. I said, “ …I wasn’t fatigued, as……….”. Also, I finished a full hour better than my projected time. Soreness the next day wasn’t an issue, either. Obviously I will look into this further. (AN ASIDE: There were 35,000 registered for this event. The energy along the course was fantastic. The crowds along the course were supporting all the runners, walkers and those on special bikes and wheelchairs. Personally, I have never witnessed the universal support for Ellen and me as we walked. The cheers for MR. DIABETESâ and www.DefeatDiabetes.org were non-stop from beginning to end!!! And, the runners, as they went by were clapping and cheering us on. The runners who were close enough would give “pats” of encouragement – my head, my shoulder(s), my butt!!! Ellen was also in awe of this. And a special word about Ellen; I am so PROUD of her!! At mile 18 she was into unchartered miles. At mile 20, also referred to as “the WALL”, the point where all energy has been sapped and the athlete then functions on pure “heart”, Ellen rallied. She dug deep into her soul, as we all do, and climbed her own personal mountain (must be the Alaskan in her). And FINISHED!!!!!!!!!!!!! She passed the test. And, then, to consider the added responsibility of looking out for me: * time to test my glucose level(s) * making sure I had water * working the cameras * carrying different things * talking with people * handing out brochures * and more……………..) November 8 was the day Ellen and Dawn were flying home. Ellen left early in the morning. We shared a moment I will never forget. Then, before Dawn headed out, one more blast at another fun day making noise about ‘diabetes awareness’. Dawn had arranged with documentary film maker from Vancouver, Canada, Andre Garrison, to come to New York to interview me for a film he was doing about diabetics’ challenges and accomplishments. He showed up at the Paramount Hotel (where I was staying) at 10am, as scheduled. He had with him two men. One was Sebastian Sasseville, a 26 yr.old Type 1 diabetic who just came back from taking 9 diabetic kids, ages 15-19, on a climb up Mt. Killimenjaro. The second was cameraman, Mike Gurr. Mike was the cameraman who filmed Sebastian’s climb. Tough job because a big part of this gig was he had to do it moving backwards. Needless to say I am flattered to be included in this group of people. The interview lasted about 45 minutes. I know I can be a bit controversial at times, but I’m from the school that says: “If you don’t want to hear the answer, then, don’t ask the question.” Andre asked questions and I didn’t pull any punches. We’ll see how it’s edited….. Halfway through the interview Dawn had to head out for the airport. At night, on Nov. 9, I took a 3 hour walk through and around Manhattan. The streets were empty except for police, cabs and a few stragglers. It was most enjoyable. Even heard from nephew Dan’l at 4am as I was walking into a restaurant to get a sandwich to go, at the end of this walk. Always a pleasure to hear from him!!! What if I was sleeping? The 10th was checkout day. I had made plans to meet with cousin Fran Brass Yoeli, who I hadn’t seen since 1962. (In the late1960’s she moved to Israel with her husband.) She showed up with one of her children, Amir, who works in the diamond district. Amir couldn’t stay as he had work commitments. Another cousin, Stan Karp, came in from New Jersey. And it was over 20 years since I had seen Stan. We didn’t have more than a couple of hours together, but it was GREAT!!!! And then, I was outta there!!!!!!!!! The trip back to Buffalo was long and uneventful. It took a couple of days to get settled, again. The Krulls are taking great care of me, and I’ve decided to winter in their yard. The odd thing about me spending the winter in Buffalo is that for 5 years I’ve been saying, almost like a mantra, that wherever I end up I don’t want to be in Buffalo in January. Go figure. Last night, the Krulls had an early Thanxgiving dinner. Bobby cooked the turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes – Jennifer baked the biscuits, I brought the dessert (cheesecake), which everyone was too full to eat. Just as well……………. And to put things in the proper perspective, about 9pm and after dinner, the snow began to fall!! It has snowed all day!!!!!! BBBRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That’s it for this UPDATE. Thank you Sanofi/Aventis, EuroRSCG Life PR, Ellen Brohard (Gallagher), Dawn Swidorski and all the other folks behind the scenes that made this month so special. Good Health. Quick Update - November 1, 2005 On Nov. 6, I will be in the NYC Marathon. I am there under the Achilles Track Club banner. The ATC is a non-profit organization set up to assist people with disability(ies) to participate in events like this all around the country. They require we each have an aide to go with us in case of medical (or other) need. In my case I will be assisted by friend Ellen Brohard who will be flying in from Bend, Oregon. If you're watching it on TV we'll be the ones in the international orange vests with "DefeatDiabetes.org" embroidered on them. After all, there will ONLY be 35,000 participants - so, we should be pretty easy to pick out.
Good Health, Mr. Diabetes® – October 2005 Update MR. DIABETESâ WAKE UP AND WALKâ TOUR LOCATION: Seneca Falls, New York TOTAL MILES: 6916.6 October has been a very interesting month. It’s been a mixed bag of interviews, a Proclamation, a limited amount of walking (mostly between raindrops), continued maintenance on the RV, and lots of activity in my capacity of Executive Director to formalize and soon to bring a number of products and services to our website: www.DefeatDiabetes.org And, of special interest is my entry into the New York City Marathon – November 6. Now for the details………….. September 28 was a busy day for me in Rochester, NY. It was a re-introduction to Rochester, as I had been there the week before doing an interview on R-NEWS. This day, though, began quite early with a 6:35am live interview at WROC – TV (Channel 8). It was great exposure for the morning TV audience. Next stop was a 30 minute live interview at 8:30am with the incredible Brother Wease on his “Radio Free Wease” Show on WCMF – FM. His fellow “teammates” included Tommy Mule (pronounced “moolay”), John DiTullio and Sally Carpenter. They are quite an irreverent group, to say the least. But, that said, they are clearly the most fun any listener can expect to find on the airways. For openers, as soon as I walked into the studio, a microphone was put in front of me and Brother Wease greeted me with a comment like (I paraphrase) “how can you be walking the perimeter of the United States – you’re old and have a big gut?” He’s right on both counts. My response to this is that I represent the average “real” person in society; that very few of us are hardcore body builders or professional athletes. That with proper medical oversight, proper nutrition and exercise any of us can do healthy and feel-good activities. And, although I was the oldest person in the room (60) and the heaviest (6’4” and about 255 lbs.) I felt a whole lot better than any of the others lQQked!!! AND, I bet, I am a whole lot healthier!!!!!! HHMMmmmmm………………….. The rest of my visit was fun, respectful and very informative for the listening audience. These folks may be a bit irreverent, but they absolutely do know their audience and got the Defeat Diabetesâ Message to them. Thank you Brother Wease for my time with you. It was great fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! After that I met with friends Ron Furman, Ken Dean and the crew at Caring People Enterprises. We spent a couple of hours together getting acquainted. Caring People has been working with Defeat Diabetes Foundation for a number of years in a most professional and productive manner. Thanx, guys, for all you’ve done over the years for diabetics. Truly, “caring people”. Next, it was off to downtown Rochester for a 3pm meeting with Mayor William A. Johnson, Jr. Prior to my meeting with The Mayor, I was interviewed by Photojournalist Michael W. Jaeger of WHEC-TV (Channel 10) NBC. The location was the historic City Hall, a must see for anyone visiting Rochester. Our meeting was very productive. We discussed many issues faced by diabetics in major metropolitan areas and suggestions on how we can best impact them. I gave Mayor Johnson our White Paper, a detailed outline of these various problems, solutions and current vital statistics. City photographer David Mohney was on hand to document this visit, which also included Mayor Johnson presenting me with a Proclamation from The City of Rochester. A great honor for me. Then a two hour ride back to Buffalo. That ended a long but very satisfying day. The next several days were devoted to working out on my rowing machine, continuing to work with Bobby Krull on the RV and Kevin McBride with the computer and other communications and wiring projects. I’ve even put Jennifer (Bobby’s daughter) to work updating all the film footage I’ve amassed over the course of THE WALKä and a whole lot of other technical “stuff” I haven’t had the knowledge or the time to deal with. Can’t say enough about Jennifer, she was valedictorian of her class in High School, has a degree in Accounting, soon heading off to Nursing School to fulfill an altruistic passion to help others, an athlete who has been on state championship softball teams as a Catcher, as well as being active in other sports, and helps Dad and Stepmom, Barbara, with her newly arrived brothers - twins Andrew and Logan. Like they say, “give the job to the busy person if you want it done right”. All this and only 21 years old come November 8. Happy Birthday, Jennifer. And thank you!!!!!!!!!!!! Other friends who had a moment in the sun were Rich Humphreys who finished his 380 miles walk from Newbury, OH to Lancaster, PA on October 1. My friend, Jackie, celebrated her Bat Mitzvah this month. Reports have filtered back that she was flawless. I’m not surprised, as I have known Jackie for a number of years and she is quite an impressive young lady. And, she just recently was one of eleven people who addressed the kick-off meeting jointly attended by Massachusetts Legislators and New England TV cameras to muster support for a very important bill to be known as Molly’s Bill. This initiative is the creation of one of our sponsors, Sun-Up Products, Inc. Molly’s Bill is proposed legislation to change the motor vehicle registration system in Massachusetts to enhance law enforcement and public safety capabilities. Many other states have shown their support for this bill. It is named in honor of Molly Bish, a young Massachusetts girl kidnapped and murdered several years ago. To learn more about this necessary program: www.ez-idprogram.com My Canadian friends, Clarence Haynes, Dexter Waldron and Bob & Trudi Banting are continuing their fight to preserve the Banting Homestead in Alliston, Ontario, Canada – the birthplace of Frederick Banting, the man who discovered insulin in 1921 along with Charles Best. Your gift of support can reach them through our website: www.DefeatDiabetes.org Please visit my August UPDATE for a more in-depth review of this effort. And a note of inspiration about another friend, Ron DeNunzio. I met Ron during my visit to Camp Ho Mita Koda, the nation’s oldest camp for diabetics (1929) – you may recall my mention of him as the “Footless Man” in the July, 2005 UPDATE. Well, Ron developed an infection in his “better” foot, which resulted in a further amputation of that leg at just below the knee. He is recovering well and still maintains his characteristic upbeat attitude. It’s gonna take a lot more than that to keep him down. Remember, folks, there are 82,000 amputations annually from diabetic related causes. Ron is one of them. It’s SERIOUS business. So, with Ron’s blessing, I again ask you to help us at Defeat Diabetes Foundation to put an end to this tragic disease. Meanwhile, I was still walking: Alexander, Avon, Lima, Centerfield, Canandaigua, Finger Lakes, Geneva, Seneca Falls, and many towns in between. In Centerfield, I was interviewed by Allison Cooper of The Daily Messenger. She came out to a beautiful Bed and Breakfast called Habersham Country Inn, which is hosted by Ray and Sharon Lesio. A step back in time, in the nicest sense. If you find yourself in the neighborhood and need a place to spend the night, I highly recommend it. After the interview, Allison gave me a ride to the starting point for that day’s walk. My next interview, and the last one for this month, came on October 12. It was with Lauren Long of The Finger Lakes Times. Lauren even walked w/ me for a bit. The 13th found me in Ithaca, NY. I went there to visit with nephew, Daniel and his girlfriend, Jen. They are both Juniors at Cornell University. We enjoyed dinner at the Manhattan Grille, spent a few hours together, then, it was back to Seneca Falls (about 40 miles north of Ithaca). Also, I had the pleasure of a visit from my dear friend Angela Aitkin. We logged a few miles on the beach and visited with friends. And some of those friends were the Krulls. Bobby and Jennifer put up an incredible Halloween Haunted House replete with huge motorized ghoulish figures, flying ghosts, eerie fog and scary sound effects. I never saw anything like it!!!! BOO!!! And all this time it is raining and cold. NON-STOP!!!! It’s the wettest spot I’ve ever been in!!! And that’s saying a lot!! But, now, there’s more to focus on. GREAT NEWS!!!! I have been granted permission to enter the New York City Marathon on November 6. For those who are unfamiliar with marathons, they are 26.2 miles long. All marathons are the same distance. I will be coming in under the Achilles Track Club banner. They specialize in assisting folks with disabilities to participate in this and similar events around the country. I qualify in this category because I can’t run, as a result of neuropathy damage to my feet and legs caused by my diabetes. So, instead, I’ll be walking the distance, as will hundreds others in this category. For those of us in this category of the event, the ATC wisely requests we have an aide to assist us in administering any medical assistance in the event of need. I will be assisted in this effort by Ellen Brohard, who is flying in from Bend, Oregon. Ellen has been training hard for this, as she has a double responsibility, to do the event and lQQk after me, no easy task. I’ll keep you posted on the outcome. So, because of the rain and the resulting poor conditions of the roadways, I decided to stop walking the roadways for the balance of the month. Instead, I’ve been spending time on treadmills. The first one I was using was at the Days Inn in Hamburg, NY. Well, that one “croaked” while I was using it. Now, Bobby Krull, took his new Pro-Form treadmill and put it in the RV for me to use for the next several days. Better luck with this one. I want to thank the pharmaceutical company, Sanofi/Aventis for their generous sponsorship of me for this NYC Marathon event. Also, they have secured my services as a compensated speaker and providing promotional services in Albany, NY; Hartford, CT; Portland, ME; Boston, MA; Philadelphia, PA; New York, NY; and additional markets to be determined. I am to provide media interviews in support of the insulin, Lantus, and diabetes A1C less than 7% insulinization awareness initiatives. Also, stay tuned to the DDF website as November rolls out. We have a number of exciting new programs, products and services that will benefit ALL diabetics. Good Health, Mr. Diabetes® – September 2005 Update
MR. DIABETESâ
WAKE UP AND WALKâ TOUR August 27 was a bleak day for me. I blew out my right knee and left ankle as a result of a dog (combination Black Lab/Rotweiler) trying to attack me as I walked. I learned long ago that I am an attraction for all dogs, wild and domestic. Because of this I am well equipped and prepared to defend myself if need be, as I have had to do many times over the course of THE WALKä. However, in this instance, I was caught by surprise. I was walking in an area where there were no homes, great shoulder to walk on and at a 3 1/2 mph pace. Suddenly, I caught out of the corner of my eye, a large black mass coming at me from behind and out of the woods – no barking to warn me. As I stepped down and pivoted to confront him I caused the injuries. My response was instinctive and there was no preparation that could have prevented this confrontation. Now, for the good news. It turns out that the dog’s attack stopped short just a few feet from reaching me, as he was on a long chain – that held!!!! Another piece of good news is that I neither tore nor broke anything; a testament to maintaining flexibility and conditioning.
The resulting damage was a severe sprain on both locations. Rest and a few rides on Sweet Red had me up and around w/in a week.
NOTE: Sweet Red is the affectionate name given to a pre-market medical device I am fortunate to have access to, which is also responsible for eliminating my neuropathy pains last year. You may remember this announcement last Fall (2004) “Miracle In Montana”. You’ll hear more about this amazing medical device and it’s inventor by the end of this year.
The next few days were spent catching up on Foundation business. It piles up quickly if not attended to on regular basis. During this “down time” I met a friend of old friend Herb Katz, Molly Thayer. Herb was from Trader Village RV Park in Houston, TX. That was in April, 2002. Herb arranged for the park to comp the stay and played w/ us while there. Lisa Rasolt, our Programs Director, and son, Daniel, came out for a visit at that time, as did Del and April Turner of Colorado. Houston was the 1000 miles mark. Daniel, by the way, still holds the record as the “guest walker” who has walked the most miles w/ me both in a single day (13 miles) and total miles. Molly is camped in Ballard’s RV Park, where I am camped. I love it when the past catches up.
Anyway, Molly had also camped in Trader Village soon after I had moved on, and Herb told her about THE WALKä. When I arrived at Ballard’s, here in Hamburg, NY she put two and two together and introduced herself. Molly is, herself, a full timer (a label given to those who live year round in their RV’s). She is a lifelong runner who has completed the torturous Death Valley Run and completed the Grand Canyon Run, amongst many other events over the years. Currently, she is recovering from a broken foot – see, it happens to all of us at some point; comes w/ the territory. After I mended, when I got back to walking, Molly volunteered to assist me by being Tour Manager for a couple of days. Thanx, Molly.
August 31 found me back in the news. I made another appearance w/ local celebrity and TV Host of AM Buffalo, Linda Pellegrino. I had been Linda’s guest on PM Buffalo a week before. Once again, her show is regional in the U.S. and reaches the massive Toronto, Ontario, Canada audience of 4 million people. More great exposure!!
Mr. Diabetes®, Andy Mandell
and Linda Pellegino, AM Buffalo September 1 was another great media day. At 10am I had an interview w/ the very popular team of Joe Chille and CJ for their morning drive radio show on WJYE-FM (96.1). Again, wonderful hosts.
The next day was a very special day. I was invited by Paresh Dandona, MD to visit The Millard Fillmore Hospital and tour the special wing dedicated to treating diabetic outpatients. This man is funny, pleasant and, obviously, brilliant. Dr. Dandona is world renowned for his many contributions in the field of diabetes, including reviewing all diabetes medications for efficacy. This tour included me being introduced to a number of specialists who address the various needs of the patients.
Mr. Diabetes®, Andy Mandell and Paresh Dandona, M.D., Millard Fillmore Hospital This facility, under his direction, can brag about their emphasis on prevention. In the last 10 years his/their approach has worked so well that in treating many thousands of patients there has not been a single amputation or case of blindness, and only one case of a patient requiring kidney dialysis (a 77 year old woman). HUGE!!!!!!!!!! This has been Defeat Diabetes Foundation’s mantra since our inception in 1990.
The last hour of my visit I sat in on a weekly brainstorming session w/ his core team of doctors. A slide presentation was given by one of the doctors and then dissected and discussed by all of the team. The hour went fast; was very friendly and informative. And make no mistake about it, they are all business. I was permitted to film this session.
DDF fully endorses Dr. Dandona and The Millard Fillmore Hospital.
During the next several days I continued my computer education w/ Kevin McBride. His patience and clarity of explanation(s) is allowing me to explore the capabilities of computers. He is doing this while he continues to “clean up” my laptops and prepare me for soon taking control of The MR. DIABETESâ WAKE UP AND WALKâ TOUR section of the DDF website. This will give Lisa more time to address other website activities. And kudos to Kevin for getting my printer to work. I had been told that mine was unusable, except for copying, and to buy another. HHMMMmmm……….
Incidentally, one of the valuable things he has shown me is how to view every website ever visited by anyone who has used my computer. I had always thought that separate accounts required a P-word to view a history. Not the case. In my case, this is important because I was able to review and find websites helpful to DDF I thought were long ago wiped out. If you want to recapture those old websites get in touch w/ Kevin: Direcway@the1solution.com He can probably help w/ other computer issues, even over the phone. He is Direcway Certified, Microsoft Certified and SBCA Certified.
September 7 I was scheduled to go to Toronto, Ontario, Canada. So, September 6 was errand day. Somewhere along the line I lost my wallet. Anybody who has had that experience knows that hollow feeling in the pit of your stomach and the resulting despair. I didn’t discover it until the end of a very long day. But, I couldn’t make a move w/out it. It had all my ID and more. W/out it I wasn’t crossing any borders, getting money from the bank, etc. It was VERY inconvenient. And, on top of that, I hadn’t anticipated such an event by making copies of all of my wallet’s contents. Hard to report/cancel any of the contents w/out copies. A valuable lesson learned!!
Anyway, I retraced my steps. And, as luck would have it, I got lucky!! In one of the malls I had visited, my wallet had fallen from my pocket onto the ground in the parking lot. Whoever found it brought it into a nearby restaurant and gave it to the bartender. That restaurant is T.G.I. Friday’s on McKinley Drive in Hamburg, NY. And the bartender is Nicole Nugent. Needless to say I was/am thrilled and grateful!!! Everything was in tact. My reward to her was dinner for two at my favorite local restaurant, Murphy’s Main Street Station. Everybody wins!!!!!!!!!! As a result, my trip to Toronto was delayed one day. Oh, and before I left, I did make copies of ALL the contents in my wallet. TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADAMy visit to Toronto was extraordinary. I have been looking forward to visiting Toronto (for when I got to Buffalo, NY) since THE WALKä began in Florida several years ago. Toronto is also known as “Insulin City” because this is where insulin was discovered by Frederick Banting, MD and Charles Best, PhD. in 1921. The discovery location is credited to The University of Toronto and was first “officially” applied at Toronto General Hospital. I could not, in good conscience, miss this opportunity to visit and reflect on a discovery, which is arguably one of the greatest discoveries of all time. Over the years it has saved the lives of hundreds of millions of people all over the world.
For the last year-and-a-half I had been in frequent
conversation with Clarence Haynes of Toronto. Clarence is the Diabetic
Chairman for District A7-11 Lions Clubs and is, himself, a diabetic.
Clarence oversees 80 clubs from Hamilton to Barrie to Agincourt. The
active membership in these clubs is 2000+. No small responsibility, which
Clarence takes quite seriously and remains staunchly focused. More
amazing is the fact that Clarence is 88 years old. And he moves, thinks
and talks like a man half his age. He is an inspiration to me and, I’m
sure, to all who meet him.
Well, September 9 was the newly appointed day for me to go
to Toronto. I got there in time for us to have dinner and get
acquainted. Clarence didn’t come empty handed, either. He brought along
some friends of equally high caliber. There is fellow Lion, Dexter Waldron
who was accompanied by his Guide Dog, Taurus. I spent a lot of time w/
Dexter over the next 36 hours – a very funny man w/ lots of stories to
tell. He, too, is an inspiration. Clarence also introduced me to his
special friends, Bob and Trudi Banting. That’s right, a descendent of the
discoverer of insulin!!!! And this was only the beginning of a most
fascinating weekend. At this time they presented me with several gifts. We had dinner at the restaurant deck of the Mendosa Motel. It overlooked Lake Ontario and provided a majestic view of the Toronto skyline (across the Humber Bay), especially after dark when the city was all lit up. Above us on the overhang was a family of raccoons, which the restaurant had adopted. They roamed that overhang visiting the various tables below creating an interesting and fun diversion. Taurus was particularly enthusiastic, but did behave himself. During dinner Bob explained a brief history of his Great Uncle’s contribution to the world and gave great insight into Frederick’s character. Bob is a wealth of family history and inexhaustible stories. Trudi shares this interest and, clearly, they make a delightful and dedicated couple. But, trouble is brewing in Insulin City……….. Frederick Banting determined that insulin should belong to the world, and so, did not capitalize on the financial rewards he could have claimed. Not only was he Canada’s first Nobel Prize winner for this discovery, he was also the youngest Canadian to ever receive this honor. To this day he is still the youngest Canadian recipient of a Nobel Prize.
Several years ago, descendent Edward Banting, donated the
Banting Family Homestead, located in Alliston, Ontario to the Ontario
Historical Society (OHS) to be kept, it is believed, in perpetuity (a
codicil to his will is curiously missing) to honor Frederick’s humble
beginnings. It consists of 100 acres of farmland
upon which sits his childhood home. Considering the remoteness of this
home and its rustic environment, which he was born into on November 14,
1891, it is an even more remarkable and unlikely a source of such a
discovery!! November 14 is celebrated world wide as World Diabetes Day in
honor of Frederick’s birthday. The next day I was given a tour of the grounds of this Homestead. Although Bob is legally prevented from going onto the grounds (a miscarriage of justice in my humble opinion) I did walk the grounds with Clarence and Trudi, too. Dexter was also present. Now, here’s a bit of serendipity. Bob’s dream upon gaining control of the Homestead is to turn it into a camp for diabetics. He plans to model it after Camp Ho Mita Koda, the oldest diabetes camp in the U.S. (Newbury, Ohio) founded in 1929. If you remember, this is the very same camp I found so impressive when I visited there in July, 2005. Please read my August, 2005 UPDATE.
It seems a shame that the guardian of this historic shrine,
The Ontario Historical Society, wants to sell this property to land
developers for money that will vaporize into legal fees, salaries, pay
some bills, etc. They have put a price tag of $4.4 million on the
property, and apparently it is a better than fair value for the purpose of
development. It appears that a neighboring property has begun a similar
development project. Bob, Trudi and the Banting Family, local, provincial
and federal helpers are determined to stop this insensitive maneuver by
OHS. To this end they have enlisted the help of Clarence, Dexter and many
others who appreciate the significance of such an historic landmark. Society, as a whole, has an obligation to itself and future generations to preserve landmarks, which allow us all to take pride in historic events. It is a tie to the past. It is a tie to the possibilities of what the future can bring. Especially, when we can actually see the struggle and incredible results of such humble beginnings. Stories have been told of the huge sacrifices Frederick Banting made in his quest for human survival in the tragic world of diabetes. True stories all!! These stories are well documented with pictures, news articles of the day, scientific papers and drawings, and legal filings of the development of insulin. Bob, Trudi and others have meticulously documented this phenomenal history of the man and his discovery. I am impressed w/ this complete and in-depth compilation of one man’s courageous life. Of equal concern to me is the deafening silence of all the diabetic organizations to help save this site. Where are they?!?! They should have been front and center to champion this noble cause. But, they are not!! The Banting Family, up till now, have been carrying the good fight quite alone. Well, you are no longer alone!!! Because of Clarence’s loud commitment to this cause Defeat Diabetes Foundation is now behind this preservation effort. We call upon ALL such organizations to join us, as we join The Banting Family, in this fight. The Lions Clubs of Insulin City are ready to take action. We seek others to actively get involved; not merely to give silent approval to the cause. Can you imagine taking the Revolutionary warship The U.S.S. Constitution, the very same ship sailed by John Paul Jones, and chopping it up for firewood?! Can you imagine taking historic Boot Hill and plowing it under for some inane purpose?! We have designated for preservation many tens of thousands historic sites all around the U.S. and Canada because of the undeniable importance they offer our societies. Well, The Banting Homestead belongs to hundreds of millions of diabetics past, present and future - worldwide. And, so, MUST be preserved!!!!!! All donations made to Defeat Diabetes Foundation for the purpose of preserving The Banting Homestead are tax deductible. 100% of such designated funds will be forwarded to The Banting Family to help defer the high costs of this endeavor. Donate Now Once again, the piece of junk support vehicle broke down and required 5 hours of down time for the repair. The alternator needed to be rebuilt and a fan belt had frayed and needed replacing. Clarence, Dexter and I took this opportunity to strategize various ways Defeat Diabetes Foundation and The Lions Clubs can join forces to impact this insidious disease. We came to some very positive conclusions and will soon put thoughts into action(s). Stay tuned. The next day, Sunday, was a general touring day. Here I took a walking tour of downtown Toronto w/ my friend Angela Aitken. Angela is, in order of importance, Mother, sketch artist and aspiring computer guru. She is also an adrenaline junkie, as she is inclined to meet life’s challenges head on and inclined to take risks, whatever that means. Toronto is an alive city and people are interesting and fun. I will return. Not in winter, though. Back in Hamburg, NY I was walking once again. I’m fully recovered from my injuries sustained on August 27. Meanwhile, Kevin continues to assist me in my computer needs and has recruited friend Bob Krull who is permanently fixing my generator and listing other important maintenance tasks still to be done. These are a number of neglected simple fixes. Fortunately, these issues are being addressed before they turn into real expensive headaches. And a quick note of support for my friend, Rich Humphreys, who has now completed about 270 miles of his 380 miles walk from Camp Ho Mita Koda in Newbury, OH to Lancaster, PA. We talk almost daily and share our many common experiences of a peripatetic life on the road. Rich, a Type 1 diabetic, is another fine example of diabetics being neither helpless nor hopeless. THE WALK™ is rapidly expanding in its focus and exposure. Our team is working hard to meet these new developments. It’s all good. Stay tuned………………………….. A voice of encouragement and support for all those citizens of the Gulf coast. I remember affectionately having walked through there in January, February and March of 2002. GOOD HEALTH Andy Mandell MR. DIABETESâ
Total Miles Walked: 6799.6 Location: Hamburg, New York THE WALKä is getting more and more attention from all quarters; that has always been the focus. The more “noise” we make, the greater the awareness. And the greater the awareness, the greater the prospects for improving the lives of all diabetics, and the better the opportunity to prevent it from ever occurring in “pre-diabetics”. Be aware that diabetes is at least 75% preventable in Type 2 diabetes. AWARENESS + ACTION = PREVENTIONâ. July 25 found me at the Hillcrest Hospital in Cleveland, OH meeting with their regularly scheduled diabetes support group. After that, it was off to meet with Cleveland’s Mayor Jane Campbell. It was quite informative, as I also met with her support team. That included: Matt Carroll of the Health Dept.; Conor Coakley, Executive Assistant to the Chief of Staff; David J. Fitz, Press Secretary; Chad Self, Deputy Press Secretary; and John J. Goersmeyer, Assistant to the Press Secretary. I received a Proclamation and it was covered by local media. That concluded my wonderful visit to Cleveland, a city truly committed to fighting diabetes. For the full impact of my Cleveland experience go back to the July, 2005 UPDATE in E-Lertsä. And, on July 26, I was further honored with a Certificate of Recognition from Ohio Governor Bob Taft. July 26 found me up the road in Erie, PA. I met with Mayor Richard E. Filippi where I was presented with a Proclamation and a Key to The City. Mayor Filippi and I discussed what is currently happening in Erie to fight diabetes and how we can work together to do more.
During the month of July I had been in touch with a fellow adventurer, Rich Humphreys. Rich had heard about THE WALKä and knew I was in the Cleveland area, and requested that we meet. Rich is a very special man on a very special mission. I’ll explain……….. Rich is an “ageless” 62 year old man who exerts his compassion of storytelling to all age groups. His appearance of long white hair and prominent white mustache (I like his style) and relaxing casual attitude fits right in with this special calling. He also hosts cooperative group games and entertains with songs, and so much more………. And, if you want to learn about GNOMES, he’s the man. (AN ASIDE: when I mentioned this to our own Public Outreach Director, Dawn Swidorski, I found out she has a huge knowledge of GNOMES. One never knows. HHMMMmmmmm………) Anyway, Rich is a Type 1 diabetic. And on July 27 we met. He is the Director of Camp Ho Mita Koda, the oldest camp for diabetics in the U.S. It was founded in 1929 and is located in Newbury, Ohio. What an eye-opener!! I arrived in time to enjoy the last two days of this
particular two week session of co-ed 13-15 year old Type 1 diabetics. We parked our 2 RV’s on the basketball court and proceeded to meet and share two full days of camping activities. And they have everything any well equipped camp can offer: flag raising and lowering ceremonies; boating; wall climbing; various sports; archery; field trips; dances; and on and on. They also have a complete 24/7 medical facility fully staffed. I enjoyed Rich’s other staff personnel, as well. Rich’s very special co-director is Linda Haywood, a kindergarten teacher and a co-founder of her school in the Lancaster, PA area. She knows how to “git-r-done”. And I met a remarkable man, Ron DeNunzio. Ron is also staff, but a lot more. Ron has suffered foot amputations as a result of his diabetes, yet moves around in a way you’d never know it. Always with a smile and never a complaint. He supports/volunteers at diabetes events year round. And then there’s Paul McGurgan, the man who was to head the next session of Type 2 campers. But, most especially, were the kids who opened their hearts and shared their days with me. There are too many wonderful kids and moments to fairly single out any one particular time or person. Except, that is, Ishmail. He gave me the cook’s tour and acted as photographer. Suffice to say they are all inspirational!! Rich was soon to begin a 350 mile solo walk from Camp Ho Mita Koda to Lancaster, PA. The plan is to complete 15 miles p/day and sleep on the side of the road in a tent. I know he can do it because we took a day and walked on my route (Linda, too). On my best day I couldn’t keep up with him. And it turns out that he had bicycled across the U.S. in 1976. Like I said, a fellow adventurer. Rich and Ron are true examples that diabetics can do anything they want to do. They are fabulous examples to all diabetics: we are neither helpless nor hopeless!!! I also met with Helen M. Dumski, RD,LD Vice President, Programs and Services from the Diabetes Association of Greater Cleveland. We talked at length about programs and how we could work together in the future. I interviewed with Tracy, a reporter for their newsletter. While at the camp I addressed campers several times, including parents and campers at a special Rich Humphreys closing ceremonies. July 29 was moving day. Camped in the Fairview, PA, which is the next town west of Erie. July 30 was the day I walked with Rich and Linda. Before that, though, I had the pleasure of addressing a group at Curves fitness center on Peach Street in Erie. Co- owner, Tammy Cass, was a wonderful host. Partner Carroll S. Lesik had the day off. It was a lot of fun and was covered by WJET-TV (ABC-CH 24). Reporter: Laura Gray. July 31 was somewhat restful, as I walked 12 miles and did personal chores. August1 started early. I had an in-studio interview with news anchor Mark Soliday at WICU-TV (NBC-CH 12) that I had to be there by 6:45 am. Not my favorite time of day to be up and out, but………………. That appearance was followed by an 8:30 am interview with the West County Journal News located in Girard, PA. For this one I was interviewed by Editor Becky Funt. August 2 was a pretty full day. I walked from Erie to North East, PA. On the way I interviewed with The Erie Times-News, Reporter David Bruce and Photographer Rob Engelhardt. Later in the day I interviewed with The North East News-Journal, Reporter Tracy Jones. August 3 I walked into New York State. New York is the twenty-first state I’ve walked. As I walked through Ripley, NY I was interviewed by The Observer, Reporter Justin Kerns. Photographer Justin Goetz came out to capture the moment on film. (Later in the month I will run into Justin Goetz, again.) August 4 was another walking day. However, I did experience an insulin reaction. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen from time to time. Just a little reminder of some of the difficulties confronting diabetics. And, as it turned out, this was Steve’s last day as Tour Manager. He had given his notice many months before but agreed to stay on until I found a replacement. The interviews that followed were not fruitful. He had made arrangements to move on to another job and it was time for him to get on with his life. So, with my blessing he has moved on, and I continue to do THE WALKä as a solo act. August 5 Steve left and I began a new chapter in this incredible journey. This and the next few days were spent catching up on some of the long overdue vehicle maintenance chores. August 8 began a terrific four day visit to Pittsburgh, PA. This visit had been planned for some time by our DDF outreach team: Dawn Swidorski, Ron Moran and Marilyn Owens. It was well planned and went off without a hitch. It began with a talk at Curves in Mercer, PA. Beth Foster is the Owner/Manager. Here I interviewed with Gail Habishaw of The Record Argus and Kevin of The Tri-County News. Next came another talk at the Curves in Munhall, PA (just outside Pittsburgh), which is owned and operated by Joe Farrell. Here I was interviewed by two newspapers: McKeesport Daily News, Reporter Carol Frazier and The Valley Mirror, Reporter/Photographer Jack Ruskin. From there I drove to a third scheduled Curves appearance in Bridgeville, PA. Here I was greeted by Owner, Cynthia Morse and Manager, Judy Gehrlein. This was scheduled for an hour but went on for 2 ½ hours. The gathered group was enthusiastic and quite inquisitive. It was a superb Q & A session. So, that ended DAY 1 in Pittsburgh. August 9 was day two in Pittsburgh. And what a day!!!! The outreach team had arranged for me to get a tour of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. More specifically, The University of Pittsburgh Diabetes Institute. I was greeted by Gerri W. Weiss, Director Organizational Affairs UPMC Adult Clinical Services Division. She proceeded to introduce me to the various department heads involved in cutting edge diabetes programs. We discussed the multi-million dollar Look Ahead program they are co-ordinating. It is funded largely by the National Institutes of Health. There are currently 16 clinical sites around the U.S. doing remarkable research. Some of the individuals I met with were: Julie Mancino, MS, RD, CDE, Research Dietician/Division of Endocrinology; Frederico G. Steidel Toledo, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism; Donna Wolf, MS Exercise Physiologist, LOOK AHEAD trial/ Division of Endocrinology, and others – all truly dedicated professionals. This scheduled 1 ½ hour tour actually lasted 2 ½ hours. We were able to share, in some detail, their program(s), Defeat Diabetes Foundation’s programs, the MR. DIABETESâ WAKE UP AND WALKâ TOUR, attitudes, and more ………….. It was quite a visit!!! From UPMC I headed over to The Allegany Valley Hospital in Natrona Heights (north of Pittsburgh). Here I was scheduled to address a Diabetes Support Group affiliated with Joslin Diabetes Center. It was a group of about 50 diabetics hosted by Sue Hobbins. This talk was scheduled for ½ hour but went on for 1 ½ hours. It seems that when we get to the Q & A part of the talk(s) there are a lot of questions diabetics have for which they aren’t getting satisfactory answers. When we start sharing information, the clock isn’t always a consideration. Once again this effort and DDF shows we know how to address many of the needs of diabetics that aren’t otherwise being addressed. That ended DAY 2. The next morning, August 10, I met with Giant Eagle executives to introduce MR. DIABETESâ, Defeat Diabetes Foundation and our involvement with the diabetic community. The intent is to explore how we can work together to impact this insidious disease. It’s a huge problem that can only be solved by non-profits, like DDF, working together with trusted business entities. There are no hidden agendas, here. We all have the communities’ best health interests at heart. This meeting ended with promises to explore ways we might interact together to that end. That evening I spent with friends – Erin/Chris and Little Freddy Claire; and Dale and Fred Shehady. We dined at Grand Concourse in West Station Square. Fred and Dale hosted this party. These folks are old family favorites. And Fred proved to be invaluable to my getting around Pittsburgh. Every time I would get lost, no matter where or when, he would know exactly where I was and guide me back on track. And, Fred knows even more about oriental rugs than he does about his native Pittsburgh. So, for ALL your oriental rug needs, visit Fred at The Richard Oriental Rug Gallery at 1421 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh 412.471.6336. And tell him MR. DIABETESâ sent you. I want to let the world know how much I enjoyed Pittsburgh. It is remarkably similar to my hometown of Boston, MA. The cultural offerings are varied and interesting, the University population guarantees the free flow of ideas and new youth, constantly. The architecture is also fun and interesting, there are major league sports teams, and more…. The one thing I’m not sure about is the severity of winter there. But, that isn’t an issue in August. And, to round out my visit to Pittsburgh, Mayor Tom Murphy declared by Proclamation that August 8-10 be Andy Mandell Days. The next several days found me back in Erie and dealing with bringing the vehicles up to snuff. I’ll be doing this kind of thing for a while, it looks like. August 14 and 15 I was back to walking. No matter what I still have to log miles; that’s what this gig is all about. These were the first walks |
This
event was covered by TV media: WJET-TV (ABC-CH 24); WXFP-TV (FOX-CH
66); WICU-TV (NBC-CH 12).