Lilly Diabetes, American Diabetes Association and Roush Fenway Racing to Drive Awareness During Month of November

Throughout the month of November, Roush Fenway Racing will support partners Lilly Diabetes and the American Diabetes Association as they highlight American Diabetes Month and World Diabetes Day.  In addition to unique video and social content, the team will carry special decals on all six of its Fords in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series during the month.

“Diabetes is obviously something that hits very close to home for me, so I really appreciate that our entire Roush Fenway team and partners are helping to raise awareness during the month of November,” said Ryan Reed, driver of the No. 16 American Diabetes Association Drive to Stop DiabetesSM presented by Lilly Diabetes Ford Mustang.  “I’m proud of the work that both the American Diabetes Association and Lilly Diabetes do, and am excited to draw more attention to that.”

Diabetes impacts nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States, with another 86 million having prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.  American Diabetes Month takes place each November, with the goal of raising awareness of this ever-growing epidemic, with programs designed to focus the nation’s attention on the issues surrounding diabetes and the many people who are impacted by the disease.

In an effort to further this initiative, the American Diabetes Association selected the theme America Gets CookingSM to Stop Diabetes®.  This initiative is designed to inspire people to live a more active and healthier lifestyle, empowering all Americans to cook nutritious and delicious food, and be more active.  Each day of the week features a special theme aimed to get Americans moving, make favorite recipes healthier or check diabetes and nutrition facts.  For more information, fans are encouraged to visit www.diabetesforecast.org/adm.

“American Diabetes Month provides the opportunity for the American Diabetes Association to come together with Lilly Diabetes and others to rally the country to learn more about this epidemic,” said Marjorie Cypress, PhD, CNP, CDE, President, Health Care & Education, American Diabetes Association.  “Throughout the month of November, America Gets Cooking to Stop Diabetes will engage Americans to take steps in the direction of leading healthier lives, ultimately getting us closer to stopping diabetes.”

With 382 million people living with diabetes globally, World Diabetes Day, with the theme of Healthy Living and Diabetes, serves to draw attention to the global impact of diabetes.  The day itself is celebrated on November 14, to mark the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea which led to the discovery of insulin in 1921.  It was through their partnership with Lilly that the first commercial insulin was brought to market.

“Through the Drive to Stop Diabetes program, we hope to get people talking about diabetes with their doctor, as well as their friends and family,” said Mike Mason, vice president, U.S., Lilly Diabetes.  “We’re grateful to have Ryan and his Roush Fenway team helping to drive the conversation during American Diabetes Month.”

Throughout the month of November, Roush Fenway fans can look forward to videos featuring Reed and his pit crew featuring healthy cooking tips, fitness tips and diabetes facts.  Follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @RoushFenway.

RFR PR