Engineers design things. They apply their respective expertise in physics,chemistry, computer science, biology and more to build structures, devices,systems and materials to solve real-world problems. At the Diabetes Research Institute, tissue and bioengineers work to overcome the hurdlesin cell replacement therapy and play a key role in our effort to discover abiological cure.

Tissue engineering uses a combination of cells, engineering principles, biomaterials and biochemical factors to improve or replace biologicalfunction. Today, with advances in materials science and cell-based thera-pies, tissue engineering has entered a whole new era and one that is central to many life-saving clinical applications.

The DRI’s tissue and bioengineering teams are at the center of one of themost important initiatives underway at the Institute – the development ofa mini organ that mimics the native pancreas. Working together withother DRI colleagues, like immunologists, molecular and cell biologists,transplant surgeons, clinical researchers and others, the team is focusingon several pieces of the puzzle that will help to overcome the challenges faced with current islet transplantation procedures.

Among these is the need to identify an optimal site within the body to house transplanted cells. DRI scientists and collaborators have alreadyshown that transplanted islets can restore natural insulin production in patients with type 1 diabetes, and that the cells can function long term.Islets are currently transplanted into the liver, but this site is not ideal for a number of reasons. That’s where tissue engineering comes in. TheDRI team is engineering new sites within the body to house insulin-producing cells, among them a bioengineered, sponge-like scaffold (seerelated stories on pages 9-11). In fact, clinical trials using the scaffold are expected to begin next year.

But an alternate site must do more than simply house transplanted cells. The native pancreatic environment provides critical levels of nutrients and other factors that sustain healthy islet function. For example, islets need an abundance of oxygen, so DRI researchers are developing and testing special biomaterials to supply the cells with this vital element at the time of and immediately post-transplant.

Islets also need protection from the immune system. So the DRI teams are developing special coatings to encase the cells with an ultra-thinprotective barrier. The researchers are also working with biomaterials to deliver low-dose anti-rejection drugs locally, at the site of the transplant, instead of throughout the entire body.

Recent progress in these areas and more were presented by several DRI scientists last month, including Peter Buchwald, Ph.D., Maria Coronel,Ph.D., Kerim Gattas-Asfura and Jessica Weaver, at the 2012 Biomedical Engineering Society Conference in Atlanta, GA.

The Trustees of the Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation have announced a $2 million commitment to establish the Fred and Mabel R. Parks Cell Supply Center at the DRI. The Center is charged with developing aninfinite supply of insulin-producing cells to be housed in the “mini-organ” which will normalize blood sugarlevels. Please look for the full story in the next issue of Focus. (Pictured: Foundation President Jim McClellanwith a Cycle of Discovery award.)

BIOENGINEERING BETTER OPTIONS FOR A BIOLOGICAL CURE

DRIfocusJoin us on social media!

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Fall 2012 / Volume 40 / Issue 1

CELL SUPPLY CENTER TO BE NAMED FOR FRED AND MABEL R. PARKS FOUNDATION

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FOUNDATIONSTAFF NEWS The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation is proud to welcometwo new people to the team and announce the promotions ofthree staff members.

Nicole Otto has been a vital member of the DRI Foundation staffsince joining the organization in 2001 and was recently promotedto associate director of special events in the Florida office. She hasoverseen a number of successful events and has proven strengthsin developing strong relationships with donors and committeemembers and creating opportunities for increased event support.Nicole is personally entrenched in the mission of the DRI since herfiance has type 1 diabetes, and she truly believes the DRI is the besthope for a cure.

Dena Kawecki joined the Florida special events department as special events manager in August. Not only does she bring withher years of experience in development and special event planning,but she also has been specializing in the “diabetes world” for sometime. She worked for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation inthe Hartford, CT, area and later for the Denver/Rocky MountainChapter. In both positions, she worked closely with committeesand leadership to promote the organization.

Douglas Ramirez joined the Northeast office as special eventsmanager in July. He comes to the DRI Foundation with significant

event experience with New York City nonprofit organizations. Mostrecently, he was the special events manager for the Greater NewYork affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. He has cultivated andsecured donations from individuals and corporate sponsors, as wellas solicited in-kind donations. Douglas also has been responsiblefor event logistics, production and marketing plans for a variety of events.

Jill Salter was recently promoted to the position of developmentmanager in the Northeast office. With a gifted eye for detail, shehas served as a strong asset to the Foundation since 2004. Jill hasprevious nonprofit experience with UJA-Federation (United JewishAppeal), and also spent time in the corporate sector, working atArthur Young, R.R. Bowker, General Instrument, and Lane Bryant.

Sarah Mehan joined the Florida office in March of 2011 and was recently promoted to special events coordinator. She’s very excitedto get more involved with all the families from the event committeessince her heart lies in working with children. She started her careeras a pediatric nurse at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and alsoserved as a nanny. Through her experiences, she has seen what adiabetes diagnosis can do to a family and is now dedicated to theDRI’s cure-focused mission.

A Messagefrom the Chairman

Dear Friends,

The holidays are a time to reflect upon the past year, give thanksfor all of the wonderful people in our lives and set our sights on anew year full of achievement. This issue of DRIfocus encompassesall of these themes.

We begin by expressing sincere gratitude to the Fred and Mabel R.Parks Foundation and its president Jim McClellan for their recent $2million gift that will name the DRI’s cell supply center. This significantdonation, together with gifts received from other generous donors,will help support one of the most exciting initiatives we’ve seen yet.

As you read in our cover story and other articles within, our DRI scientists are working collaboratively on the development of a miniorgan to mimic the native pancreas. Building upon its progress inislet transplantation, the DRI is addressing the research challengesthat remain. Our tissue and bioengineering teams are at the centerof much of this effort with the development of new, biocompatibleplatforms to house and protect the insulin-producing cells. We arethrilled to be moving toward clinical testing of one of these platformsin the coming year and look forward to keeping you abreast of thispioneering work.

It took a dedicated effort to reach this point and we are grateful tothe entire DRI team for their unyielding commitment to our mission.We are also deeply thankful to the many wonderful people withinour DRI family – people like you and our other generous donors andvolunteers, many of whom are pictured throughout this issue. Yourinvolvement has made a huge difference in our ability to move researchforward – and the progress we report here is a testament to that.

On behalf of all of us at the Diabetes Research Institute and Foundation,thank you for your support of our work. With your involvement,we continue to make the significant strides that keep our beliefin a cure alive.

Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous holiday season andNew Year.

Sincerely,

Harold DoranChairman of the Board

1. Nicole Otto2. Dena Kawecki

3. Douglas Ramirez4. Jill Salter

5. Sarah Mehan

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The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation is pleasedto announce the appointment of three new directorsto the National Board and one new member to theLong Island Regional Board.

John C. Doscas has been on Wall Street for over 30years. He is managing partner of Chartwell Trading, aproprietary global arbitrage firm. Previously, John wasco-founder and president of Hudson Bay Capital. Hehas advised numerous hedge funds on the financialmarkets and has served on many financial industrypanels and committees. He also invests and is activein the commercial real estate market.

John and his wife, Anne, have supported the DRIF’sLong Island regional events since 1999, but when theireldest son, Christopher, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 20 in 2009, they began a worldwidesearch to identify the organization that was bestequipped to find a cure. It’s no surprise they endedright back at the DRI. The family, including Christopher’s siblings Michelle and Peter, toured the DRI’s state-of-the-art facility earlier this year, and John served as the honoree for the Crystal Ball.

Sean McGarvey, president of the Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD) of the AFL-CIO, started his career with the InternationalUnion of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) in 1981 as an apprentice glazier with Glazier’s Local 252 inPhiladelphia, PA. Since then, he has held a number ofunion positions and worked through the ranks until he was elected secretary-treasurer of the BCTD in 2005.On April 16, 2012, following the untimely passing offormer President Mark H. Ayers, Sean was elected tothe office of president of the BCTD. He serves on several boards and as a trustee on numerous labormanagement committees.

The unprecedented partnership between the DRIF and the BCTD spans more than two decades. TheFoundation’s largest contributor, the BCTD committedto funding – and building – the DRI facility in Miamiyears ago. Today, Sean promises that union supportwill continue and strengthen until the DRI finds thecure for the millions of children and adults affected by diabetes.

Sean currently resides in Huntingtown, MD, and hastwo lovely daughters, Kerri Ann and Kelsey Marie. Healso has a close family member with type 1 diabetes.

David Sherr is the founder and managing partner ofOne William Street Capital Management, L.P. (OWS)and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of thefirm’s day-to-day activities. He is also the head of thefirm’s Investment and Management Committee and

a member of the Risk and Valuation Committees. Prior to this, he was a managing director of Lehman Brothers, where he served in a senior leadership role.David has 25 years of experience in the investing andorigination businesses, fixed income markets andmanaging global trading.

Like the Doscas family, David and his wife, Holly,searched the world over for a cure-focused facilityafter their eldest child, Matthew, was diagnosed in2005 at age 6. After taking a tour of the DRI, theycommitted themselves to the cause, as David said assuredly, “It might take time, but we will find a cure.”Since then he joined the Northeast Regional Board,and the family has been involved with numerousfundraising events. The Sherrs also have three daughters, Emily, Hannah and Julia.

Joining the Long Island Regional Board, Wendy Walleris a longtime supporter of the DRI and is involved witha variety of real estate entities in Glen Cove. Prior tothat, she worked in fashion and retail management.

Wendy is a generous, hard- working and extremelymotivated member of the DRI family. Her commitment toa cure stems from love for her niece, Dara Kris-Melnick,who was diagnosed with type 1 more than 20 yearsago. Wendy has been an integral member of the Crystal Ball committee since 2009. She chairs the galaauction prize committee, and because of her tirelessefforts, the prizes have increased in number, value anddollars raised. She has co-chaired Champions for Charity, Wedding Veil Walk for A Cure and Fall IntoFashion, where she also was honored as the first recipient of the Humanitarian Award in 2011.

Everyone who meets Wendy is impressed by her energy, determination, enthusiasm and results, andthe Foundation is thrilled to have her join the regional board.

With all of the uncertainty about the changes ahead, year-end tax planning ischallenging this year. Actions taken between now and year-end may be moreimportant than ever. One consideration for many individuals in the estate taxarena is making use of all or part of the $5,120,000 temporary gifting allowance which may never exist again. If you are in a position to use this historically high gifting exemption, dollars that might have otherwise gone to pay taxes could now be freed up to support the DRI. Moreover, with the possibility of the estate tax rate rising up to 55%, including the DRI in your estate plan is more valuable than ever. Your investment in the DRI will changethe lives of millions in the future.

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NEW MEMBERS TO SERVE ON NATIONAL AND REGIONAL BOARDS

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1. John Doscas, 2. Sean McGarvey, 3. David Sherr,

4. Wendy Waller

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YEAR END TAX PLANNING NOTE

Many of our most generous donors have carefully planned for thefuture utilizing charitable gift annuities to further the mission of theDiabetes Research Institute and Foundation.

Throughout her life, Shirley Harris has made a difference helping others. For future generations, her extraordinary vision and generositycontinues with charitable planning and philanthropy beyond her lifetime. Because she has always felt compelled to support research toward a cure, she recently announced her intention to leave the DRIFoundation one of the largest bequests in its history.

Her benevolence also includes establishing charitable gift annuitiesfor the benefit of the Diabetes Research Institute. Shirley wanted tomake things a little easier for a couple of her friends, so she hasfunded charitable gift annuities to benefit them.

Shirley explained, “I received the tax benefits and am able to enjoyhelping my friends now – while I am alive, knowing that my gift willcontinue to provide for them for the remainder of their lives.” Shehas also planned for CGAs to be set up via her estate to benefit others who are close to her. “It gives me joy to know that l can helppeople I care about long after I’m gone.”

Charitable gift annuities benefit the DRI and the donor. The charita-ble gift annuity provides an income stream for life. The amount of the payments that you will receive are based on your age and the amount of the gift annuity. Ultimately, the remainder of the annuity will benefit the work of the Diabetes Research Institute.

There are different types of charitable gift annuities to suit specific needs. A flexible deferred CGA can be set up as a means ofsupplementing retirement income. The donor

can select a starting date at some point in thefuture and a portion of the annuity paymentsare tax-free.

A special type of deferred CGA can also be arranged for grandparentswho want to help with college expenses for their grandchildren. Forexample, a grandparent can name their grandchild as the annuitantof a CGA, with life payments to begin at age 18. The annuity paymentswould be converted to four annual installments, with the student receiving large payments during the college years.

Key benefits of a CGA include the following:

• The donor receives a charitable tax deduction in the year that thegift is made, or can opt to carry over a portion of the deductionover five years;

• Avoidance of capital-gain tax on the initial transfer of appreciatedassets to the CGA;

• Potential transfer-tax (gift and estate) savings;

• Avoidance of probate administrative costs.

For Shirley Harris, all of the potential benefits of the Charitable GiftAnnuity are “the icing on the cake” for her ultimate goal.

“Knowing that I am helping to find a cure for diabetes and make it a disease of the past is what’s most fulfilling for me,” she said.

For a more personalized illustration on how a charitable gift annuity can benefit the DRI and you, please contact Jill ShapiroMiller, vice president of gift planning, at (800) 321-3437.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH THE GIFT THAT

BENEFITS THE DRI AND YOUDid you know that......you can arrange for year-round income using charitable gift annuities?...there are no fees or costs involved in setting up a charitable gift annuity (CGA)?...the assets you contribute to fund your CGA will be managed by professionals?

657075808590+

4.45.15.86.87.89.0

IMMEDIATE-PAYMENT ANNUITY RATES(SINGLE LIFE)

Robert Pearlman and Dr. Camillo Ricordi gratefully acknowledged Shirley Harris for the legacy she has created to benefit the Diabetes Research Institute andFoundation through estate planning.

AGE RATE / %

The future of charitable deductions is uncertain. So if you are thinking about giving to support the cure, please consider making your giftto the DRI Foundation before year-end while you can still receive the maximum tax benefit.

ACT NOW TO BE PART OF THE CURE AND MAXIMIZE THE IMPACT OF YOUR CHARITABLE DOLLARS

DIABETES DIPLOMATS USE EVERYTHING FROM EXERCISETO AN ELEPHANT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE DRI!

Even though the Diabetes Diplomats program lays out a tried andtrue plan for organizing a school assembly and walk, some of theDRI Foundation’s heroes choose to embark upon projects of theirown creations. One ingenious 22-year-old even involved an elephantin his fundraising plan!

It all began in Miami, FL, in February at the Love and Hope Ball,where a colorful, four-foot-tall elephant caught the eye of Sam Billetdeaux. He and his family had spent the previous day touringthe DRI’s labs, where, for the first time in his life, Sam found hopefor a cure for the disease he has lived with since he was 8 years old– type 1 diabetes. Full of conviction and eager to support the DRI’swork while at the gala, Sam placed a generous bid on the impressivecreation of artist Marcie Ziv as it stood among other fabulous silentauction prizes, and won. Although this elephant didn’t need foodand water, it did need a name. Thus, a unique fundraiser was born!

Sam decided to ask the diabetes community for help, first callingupon participants of the Children with Diabetes (CWD) "Friends forLife" conference, which took place July 3-8. People who attend theevent, after all, are much like family to him since his mom, LauraBilletdeaux, organized the first conference in 2000 and is CWD'svice president of education and programs. The elephant was displayed at the DRI Foundation's booth, where Sam asked for a $5donation from anyone who wanted to submit a name. Those whochose to make a $25 donation were entered into the grand prizedrawing for a five-night stay at a Disney Deluxe Villa!

After the conference concluded, Laura and her husband, Neal, traveled with the prized pachyderm from Orlando to New York City, where Sam would determine his pet’s moniker and announce the grand prize winner via video. During the trek, the contest wasopened up to the public and the diabetes online community (DOC)tagged along on the zany journey by following a special blog “writtenby” the elephant himself! Sam chose the name Beta Cellephant,which was submitted by the Jarcho Family, who won a $100 Walgreens gift card for their creativity. The Hrinkevich Familywon the stay at Disney World, and the DRI took the cake, receivingmore than $1,400 in donations.

While Sam’s fundraiser revolved around a zoo animal, MeghanHenneberger was focused on Zumba! The North Shore High Schoolstudent thought this popular combination of dance and exercisewas the perfect way to support the work that she hopes will leadto a cure. Both she and her younger brother, Kevin, have type 1 diabetes. In conjunction with the school’s Key Club, Meghan organized a Zumbathon in Glen Head, NY, on April 27, raising nearly

$2,500. Because of the success, popularity and mission of this first-time effort, the North Shore High School Key Club is planningto make the Zumbathon an annual event.

Also an annual affair is the online effort of Jesse Nagel, who wasone of the DRIF’s very first Diabetes Diplomats. With his personalfundraising page, Jesse has raised more than $6,500 for the DRI!

Another "Humaniteen" from New York, singer Jenna Rose Swerdlowdecided to donate the proceeds from downloads of her most recently-released single, Life is a Party, to the DRI, for two days inAugust. Jenna Rose also performed at DRIF’s Carnival for a Cureevent last year. She is eager to support the cause in honor of hergrandmother, who has diabetes.

In Florida, Jonny Greenwald has been serving as a Diabetes Diplomatfor years in honor of his younger sister, Lexi, who has type 1 diabetes.But this year he took it a step further, creating a space online for siblings of PWDs to converse and share fundraising project successes. If you’re doing a project in honor of your sibling with diabetes, then join The End Zone, a team of siblings dedicated totackling diabetes at Facebook.com/TheEndZone4Diabetes!

Don’t Do Nothing! Learn more about Diabetes Diplomats and howyou can become one at DiabetesResearch.org/DiabetesDiplomats!

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1. Sam Billetdeaux with Beta Cellephant at the CWD Conference this pastsummer, 2. North Shore High School Principal Albert Cousins and MeghanHenneberger, the student who organized a Zumbathon, present a check toDRIF LI Regional Director Anthony E. Childs.

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE1 2

FOUNDATION DONORS RECOGNIZED

PERPETUATION AWARD: Nancy Smalkas of Caesars Entertainmentwith President Sean McGarvey (left) of the Building and ConstructionTrades Department and DRIF’s Tom Karlya (1).TRANSLATION AWARD: Marty Granowitz (2).EXPLORATION AWARD: Anne and John Doscas (3), Darren Levine of Platinum Maintenance Services Corp. (4), Barry Rosenof CH Robinson with former Miami Dolphin quarterback DonStrock (5), Dennis Sherry of CBRE, Inc., accepting Hypothesisand Exploration (6).HYPOTHESIS AWARD: Mick Carnevale of ThyssenKrupp ElevatorAmerica (7), Jim Migliore of William Macklowe Company (8), Alex Samilenko of Fred Geller Electrical, Inc. (9), Michele Schnell-bacher and Eric Schnellbacher of Schnellbacher-Sendon Group,LLC, accepting Query and Hypothesis (10), Rachel and BruceSiegel (11).QUERY AWARD: Kelly Bacon of TPG Architecture, LLP (12), JohnBennardo of Legacy Builders/Developers Corporation (13), Elizabeth and Rob Frisoni (14), Ed Meirowitz and Jarrett Huddlestonof Consulting Associates of New York, Inc. (15), Doreen and AndrewPeykar (16), Joe Slater accepting on behalf of the Slater Family withStrock (17), Frank Zappala of Crossland Mechanical, Inc. (18).

Awards from the DRI Foundation’s Cycle of Discovery series were presented to donors who recentlymade major gifts. The award program corresponds with the Foundation’s cumulative giving designations. Awards were presented individually and at various events, including a lovely dinnerat the Garden City Hotel in Long Island and a donor appreciation reception for those involved withthe Empire Ball at The Durst Organization in New York City.

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For our Focus newsletter, we are always looking to feature articles that will inspire others, lift spirits and remind us all to never give up hope.Jake Fischer's story does just that. He recently directed gifts in excess of $37,000 to the Diabetes Research Institute.

While the amount in itself is enough to make our scientists smile, what’s most amazing is that Jake is 13 years old! He asked the guests invitedto his bar mitzvah to make a donation to the DRI in lieu of gifts.

His mother, Jill Fischer, said, “Jake is very happy to support diabetes research. This cause is so important to our family.”

His aunt, Kim Dickstein, who serves as a Northeast Regional Board member, added, “It is our family’spleasure to support an organization that seeks to cure diabetes, especially one as special as the DRI.This disease creeps through our family tree at an insidious rate – three with type 1, three withtype 2 – affecting the last five generations.”

The money will help purchase the Leica CM3050S Cryostat, a precision instrument used to cut extremely thin slices of tissue for microscopic examination. It is a key piece of equipment for all research projects underway at the Institute.

We offer special thanks to Jake and to everyone who contributed in his honor.

Visionaries $10,000,000+ InnovationChairman’s Council $5,000,000+ ValidationLeadership Council $1,000,000+ PerpetuationGovernors’ Society $500,000+ TranslationDistinguished

Humanitarians $250,000+ RealizationGrand Founders $100,000+ ExplorationFounders $50,000+ HypothesisBenefactors $25,000+ Query

DONOR LEVEL AWARD

RECOGNIZING JAKE FISCHER

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Nothing means more toJim Sensale than trust andfamily. You can hear it inhis voice, feel it in his handshake, and see it as youwalk through the office ofthe company he built 35years ago. President ofAviation Instrument Serv-ices, Jim works alongsidehis two sons, Brad andMike, his brother, Felix,and his nephew, Floyd. He even named his boatFamily Affair, and he’sbeen married to his

sweetheart, Miriam, for 48 years. Jim is, as they say, one of thegood guys, and people know it just by the way he lives his life.

So, when Jim put his trust in the Diabetes Research Institute, it was nothing short of an honor.

“Jim swooped in and saved the day years ago for an event wherethe lead sponsor dropped out near the final hour,” said BarbaraSinger, who is director of special projects at the Diabetes ResearchInstitute Foundation and, along with her husband, Shelly, is one ofthe founding families of the organization.

Jim was already involved with the event at a lower sponsor leveland wanted to support the cause since Floyd has been living withtype 1 diabetes since he was a teenager.

“I was happy to step in as the lead sponsor of the Catch a Curefishing tournament and continued for a few years,” explained Jim.

Even after the event was discontinued in the early 90s, Jim said, “Itwon’t stop me from donating and supporting the DRI, and we’vebeen donors ever since.” More than two decades later, the Sensalesare part of the Foundation’s Governors’ Society, which includesdonors of $500,000 or more, and Jim serves on the Florida RegionalBoard of Directors.

“For me, the DRI is family. Barbara and Shelly put their heart and soul into this organization and turned their dream into something special,” he said. “Just like in business, you deal withpeople you trust, and I feel the DRI is the best place you can investyour money.”

“Jim is an extraordinary person. He gives unselfishly with hisheart and soul, and the only thing he wants in return is to knowthat he’s helping to find a cure for diabetes. And he truly is,” saidBarbara. “I wish I could clone him!”

Jim and Miriam and their sons took a tour of the Institute, wherethey walked through the laboratories, spoke with the scientists andlearned firsthand about the DRI’s research toward a biological cure.

“The scientists are extremely dedicated, hardworking people thatcare very much about what they do. When you see the facility andmeet the scientists in person, it’s very obvious,” said Jim. “Miriamand I wanted to bring the boys on the tour so they could see whereour money was going and know exactly why I will continue to donate.Plus, we wanted them to know why it’s important to be a giver.”

Jim continued, “I donate to other charities, but I’m not involvedwith them on the same level as I am with the DRI. I only wish I hadthe time to do more.”

The international diabetes community lost a legend with the passingof Dr. George F. Cahill, Jr., 85, in August. A world-renowned diabetesresearcher, Dr. Cahill, who had served as research director of the JoslinDiabetes Center and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, played

a key role in the growth of theDRI in its early years as amember of its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB).

Cahill was widely respectedthroughout the diabetescommunity and was introduced to the DRI by Dr.Albert Renold, a respecteddiabetes researcher fromSwitzerland and close friendof DRI Scientific DirectorEmeritus Dr. Daniel H. Mintz.

Cahill became a huge proponent of the DRI after learning moreabout its vision to cure diabetes and concept of uniting researchersfrom multiple disciplines under one roof.

“Dr. Cahill felt that this was the way research should be conductedin the century ahead and then joined our SAB. He was a tremendousasset in directing us and guiding us in people to recruit to the Institute,” said Mintz.

Cahill’s support and affiliation gave the DRI’s scientific program legitimacy at an important time in its history. “He had a reputationof being dedicated to excellence and people would trust what hewould say,” added Mintz. “It was one of the most critical thingsthat happened for our international credentials as a group thatwas serious about finding a cure for diabetes.”

Dr. Cahill’s expansive knowledge on diabetes and insulin led to hisbeing selected as an expert witness for the prosecution in both trials of Claus von Bulow in the 1980s.

FROM EVENT SPONSOR TO MAJOR DONOR:JIM SENSALE IS PROUD TO BE IN THE DRI FAMILY

DRI AND FOUNDATION REMEMBER DR. GEORGE F. CAHILL, JR.

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Cherie Stabler, Ph.D., is excited.

For years, she has focused on engineering a platform that can house and help protect transplanted islet cells – a major step toward the DRI’s goal of building a “mini organ” that mimics the native pancreas. Now, with the development of a “scaffold” – a sponge-like substance, slightly larger than a quarter – her research is moving us closer to that goal. The DRI expects to begin testing of the scaffold in clinical trials next year.

But that’s not all she’s excited about. As you’ll read below, there are many other promising developments in the research pipeline that willhelp create an optimal environment for the new islet cells.

Throughout this interview, Dr. Stabler, director of tissue engineering, emphasized how the ability to work with researchers from a varietyof disciplines – a unique aspect of the DRI – is critical for reaching a biological cure for diabetes.

“It really is unparalleled,” she said of her ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team. “I go other places and they say, ‘I cannot believeyou have this kind of access.’” And that access allows progress at a faster rate. “I’m excited to see all of the things we have in the pipeline,to see all these pieces that will fit very well together, that will be highly complementary and will truly improve what we have now interms of current clinical islet transplantation.”

For an extended version of this interview, please go to DiabetesResearch.org/UTM-Stabler

Q. Can you update us on your researchusing scaffolds?A. We’ve done extensive studies in severalpreclinical models and have obtained encouraging results with them.

We’ve achieved promising insulin functionin all of the recipients, and we’ve achievedinsulin independence in many of them.

Q. What’s the next step?A. So far, we’ve achieved these promising results using scaffolds made by hand. Nowwe’re working on fabricating the scaffoldsin a reproducible manner, so we can scaleup. When we have this perfected manufac-turing protocol, which is what we’re inthe midst of right now, we will perform definitive pre-clinical model studies.

Along with this are many requirementsfrom the FDA that we have to completeand finalize – all of the regulatory paperwork, quality assurance, and other issues required for clinical trials – for use in people with diabetes.

Q. How close are you to using these scaffoldsin clinical trials?A. We anticipate about a three-month processfor the manufacturing and regulatory issues,three-to-six months for pre-clinical trials,and then we’ll work with the FDA for approval.So, our plan is to be able to transplant theseby 2013.

Q. What material is used to make up thescaffold?A. We’ve been focusing on PDMS, alsoknown as silicone. It’s been used for medicalimplants for decades. It has a great clinicalprofile already. It’s highly biocompatible andstable. So, we knew in terms of trying totranslate these to the clinic that we had aneasier regulatory pathway.

We have procured clinical-grade siliconethat’s an appropriate source for long-termuse. We feel like this is the best material forus to move forward with, in the strategy ofhaving a retrievable device long term, so it’ssomething we can go in and take out if weneed to, as well as the safety associatedwith that.

In the selection of the material, we reallywanted a platform that could incorporateall of the additional components needed tocreate an even more optimal implant, suchas the ability to deliver drugs and oxygen-generating materials, and this is veryamenable to those kinds of things.

Q. Where will the scaffolds be placed in thebody?A. We will continue to focus on the omentalpouch (in the abdomen) as the site of trans-plant. In our studies, led by Dr. NormaKenyon (DRI senior scientist and MartinKleiman Professor of Surgery, Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology), we’ve looked

at several different sites. I think we’ve seenthe most promise and most flexibility withthe omental pouch. We can transplant thesize implant that we want. There’s wonderfulvascularization and healthy remodeling.We’ve seen positive responses to implantsat this site. So, I think we’ll continue to usethis as our site moving forward.

Q. So far, islets have been transplanted intothe liver. Why the new site?A. There are many challenges with the liver.One is that you’re putting islets in directcontact with the bloodstream, and thebloodstream contains inflammatory cellsand inflammatory reactions. So, you are exposing islets to a lot of inflammationwhen you transplant into the bloodstream.

Also, many drugs are processed in the liverand the byproducts of the drug metabolismcan be toxic to the islets.

Another challenge is that we lack controlover being able to define where the isletcells go because they get scatteredthroughout the liver.

When we are able to place islets into a defined, confined site, we will have controlof that local micro-environment. And thatreally opens up many doors of being able to incorporate novel strategies to promoteislet cell viability, islet function and protection,among others.

UNDER THEMICROSCOPE

with Cherie Stabler, Ph.D.

Story continues on page 10

DIABETES RESEARCH INSTITUTE AWARDED $ 4.6M TO TAKE ISLET TRANSPLANTATION TO NEXT LEVEL

DRI Scientific Director Dr. Camillo Ricordi and his team have received a $4.6 million grant tomake islet cell transplantation, an experimental procedure that has improved blood glucosecontrol and the quality of life of some with type 1 diabetes, available to more patients.

The three-year grant from the JDRF and The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trustwill help the DRI team define a new and safer implant site for islet cells, increase the survivaland function of the transplanted islets and eliminate the need for life-long systemic immuno-suppression drugs. Dr. Ricordi serves as the grant’s principal investigator together with Dr.Luca Inverardi, DRI deputy director, who is co-principal investigator.

“This is a critically important and timely support that will allow our team to remain focusedon the path to a biologic cure for diabetes,” Ricordi said. “The overall goal is to use a multi-pronged approach to address and resolve all of the outstanding issues in islet transplantationand move the field to the next level of success.”

Performed at the Diabetes Research Institute since the 1980s, successful islet cell transplantsgive patients with type 1 diabetes the ability to naturally produce their own insulin, and lead healthier, more independent lives. However, only a subset of patients benefit from the procedure because of the problems associated with the need for chronic immunosuppres-sion drugs to assure graft survival, and the low survival rate of islets when transplanted intothe currently used transplant site, the liver. In fact, islets are particularly susceptible to hypoxia (low levels of oxygen) and inflammation in the immediate post-transplant period.

In their grant proposal, “Development of an Extrahepatic Site for Beta Cell Replacement without Continuous Immunosuppression,” Dr. Ricordi and his team propose to address thoseissues, first by using the omental pouch, a fold in the lining of the abdominal cavity, as a saferand more easily accessible transplant site.

They also plan to promote islet survival in the early post-transplant period by using bioactivescaffolds, providing the islets a milieu that can be adapted to their demands, and to promoteimmunoprotection with a novel encapsulation technology.

The DRI has already obtained encouraging preliminary data, generated through the supportof the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, the JDRF and the Helmsley Trust, and on theunique assets at the DRI, where scientists with complementary expertise have long workedin concert to address the multidisciplinary challenges that still make islet transplantation anexperimental procedure offered only to a small subset of patients.

So, while there’s been very promising results in islet transplantation in the liver— illustrating the great promise of islettransplantation — we believe we can makea safer and better islet cell transplant bytaking it out of the liver and implanting itin a definable, retrievable site.

Q. If the scaffold serves as kind of a “baseplatform” to house the islet cells, then whatelse is needed to create an optimal environ-ment for the insulin-producing cells? A. The big thing for islets is oxygen. Because islets are kind of “super athletes”in the cell world, and their oxygen consumption rates are so much higher, we

really need to meet their oxygen demands.Blood vessels deliver that oxygen, so wecan put agents into the scaffold that willpromote the growth of blood vessels, orvascularization, as quickly as possible in avery organized structure.

But it’s still going to take time for all those

JDRF and The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust provide three-year grant

DRI Scientists Publish New BooksDRI Scientific Director Dr. Camillo Ricordi has co-authored a book, La FineDel Diabete (The End of Diabetes), whichoffers a perspective on the international

research model required to cure diabetes and otherdevastating diseases.Dr. Ricordi has do-nated all compensa-tion and royaltiesfrom the book to theFondazione ItalianaDiabetes, which has

been turning over the entirety of itsdonations to the DRI Foundation. AnEnglish translation of the book willfollow in 2013.

Dr. Peter Buchwald, director of drugdiscovery at the DRI and assistant pro-fessor in the department of Molecularand Cellular Pharmacology at the University of Miami, has co-authoredwith Dr. Nicholas Boder from the University of Florida, a new book,Retrometabolic Drug Design and Targeting, that provides researchers in drug discovery and design withcomplete guidance on how to use approaches to develop safe, effective,and targeted drug therapies. Dr. Buchwald, who served in the pharmaceutical industry for manyyears, directs the DRI’s efforts aimedat developing safer and more effectivedrugs for cell replacement therapies.

AROUND

THE DRI

Continued from page 9UNDER THE MICROSCOPE

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GENEROUS GIFT SUPPORTS POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW

POST-DOCTORAL FELLOWS TAKE FIRST AND SECOND PLACEIN ANNUAL COMPETITION

A gift from a generous DRI Foundation donor will help support one of our young scientists, CarmenFotino, Ph.D., who began a post-doctoral fellowship at the DRI a few years ago under the guidanceof Dr. Antonello Pileggi, director of pre-clinical cell processing and translational models. She comesto the Institute from the University of Pisa in Italy, where she earned her undergraduate degree inscience and Ph.D. in endocrinology and metabolic sciences.

Dr. Fotino is part of the team that conducts the first steps in the translational research process,where all projects at the DRI begin, by testing new strategies for immunomodulation, novel devicesand materials, alternative sites for transplantation, and stem cell technologies, as well as othercure-focused areas. She is responsible for the many facets of cell cultures and isolation and theanalysis and maintenance of various cell types, among other experiments in conjunction with Dr. Pileggi.

A co-author of numerous scientific articles and abstracts that have been published in leading peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Fotino has a personal passion for ensuring that the DRI discovers a cure.

“My father has been fighting diabetes for more than 40 years. Through my family’s experience with the difficulties of managing daily life, I have developed a great interest in diabetes research,”she said. “I always had a strong desire to join a research institution committed to curing diabetes, and I considered myself very lucky when the opportunity arose to join Dr. Pileggi’s lab asa post-doctoral fellow. I am grateful for this wonderful gift that will help to advance my education and support my career as a research scientist.”

structures to develop. So we have developedan oxygen-generating material that has thecapacity to supplement oxygen during thatinterim time period. We’ve demonstratedthat this oxygen-generating material hastremendous benefits for islets in preventinghypoxia-induced necrosis, which is cell deathinduced by low oxygen. Our vision for this

oxygen-generating material is really to serveas a bridge between when we implant thecells to when the islets are fully vascularized.

Q. How is the issue of rejection and immunosuppression being addressed? A. We want to minimize, as much as possible,the need for systemic immunosuppression.

One avenue we’re exploring is local drug delivery, and the scaffold is very amenable to local drug delivery.

Read the continuing UTM interview at DiabetesResearch.org/UTM-Stabler.

Congratulations are in order for two post-doctoral fellows, Joana Almaca, Ph.D., and Danusa Menegaz, Ph.D.,who took first and second place, respectively, for their research projects entered into the University of Miami’sAnnual Post-doctoral Fellows Research Day competition.

Dr. Almaca, received the top award among 46 entries across the UM Miller School of Medicine for her work indetermining how insulin is released from beta cells and will help in developing new therapeutic targets to improve insulin secretion. She is a post-doc in the lab of Dr. Per-Olof Berggren, head of cell biology and signaltransduction and the Mary Lou Held Visiting Scientist at the DRI. Dr. Menegaz is studying factors that hamperregular insulin secretion and lead to insulin resistance in patients. She works together with Dr. Almaca andDr. Midhat Abdulreda, research assistant professor of surgery, in Dr. Berggren’s lab on numerous experiments.

Postdoctoral fellows play an integral role at the DRI and throughout the medical school in supporting their colleagues. The purpose of this annual event was to celebrate and appreciate their important research contributions to many projects. Drs. Almaca and Menegaz certainly made all of us at the DRI proud!

LET ME COUNT THE WAYS TO GIVE

Special Occasions

From birthdays and bar mitzvahs toweddings and graduations, people are

making their special occasions even more meaningful by adding acharitable component. Couples are choosing to make a contribution

in honor of their guests rather than traditional favors. Kids are accepting donations in lieu of presents. The ideas are endless, andwe couldn’t be more thankful! If you need an idea of what verbiage touse in your invitations, please contact us at 1-800-321-3437 orinfo@drif.org.

Currently, insulin can be administered via syringe, insulin pen or insulin pump. It’s a personal choice; however, pumps are increasinglybecoming more popular with people with type 1 diabetes and insulin-requiring type 2. There are a few key tips for optimizing your success…

Are you a pump candidate?

• Who wants the pump? You, your family or health care provider? Except for a young child, it should be the person with diabetesmaking the decision.

• Are you technically capable? If you can text on a cell phone, the answer is yes!

• Are you monitoring your blood sugar levels at least four times aday? This is essential with pump therapy given use with rapid acting insulin.

• Can you carb count accurately? This is also essential given insulindosage is based on the carb information provided.

Explore all your pump options. There are currently six insulin pumpsavailable in the U.S. (T-Slim, Omnipod, Animas Ping, Medtronic, Spiritand DANA Diabecare II) and this is going to change rapidly over thenext few years. Be sure you review all your pump options to ensureyou make the best decision for you and your life. Essentially all pumpscome with smart features and you are generally basing your choiceon the different “bells and whistles” available with each pump. TheDRI conducts a class called Introduction to Pumps, which provides a full overview of technologies available (DiabetesResearch.org/insulin-pump-therapy).

Obtain insurance verification. Know if you are likely to have anyout-of-pocket expenses with pump therapy implementation. Each insulin pump company has representatives who assist with this verification process. There should be no surprises!

Get optimal pump training! Most problems associated with pumptherapy arise from improper implementation due to a lack of optimal training. There are four phases to pump therapy training:

Phase 1: Technical Training – Learn how to push the buttons on yourpump, program settings and undertake a complete site insertionand site change.

Phase 2: Pump Management – Learn how to manage your pump invarious life situations. It is essential you receive this information atthe time you start insulin pump therapy – not weeks, months oryears later.

Phase 3: Follow-up – Ensure you contact your health care teamwithin the first week on an insulin pump to notify them how youare progressing. Your health care team will notify you whether thisshould be in the form of a telephone call, email or visit, with the latter essential if you are experiencing any challenges. Also, arrangea formal follow-up session with a member of your health care teamwithin three to four weeks for full evaluation and pump downloadto identify any early opportunities for improved management.

Phase 4: Advanced Pump Features – All pumps come with advancedfeatures to assist people with diabetes to handle different life situations that arise. These advanced features pertain largely to exercise, carbohydrate coverage, sick days or monthly cycles and areunfortunately grossly underutilized or unknown by many peopleusing insulin pump therapy. As I tell my patients, “Why have a Ferrariif you are going to drive it like my Jeep!” So get the best from yourinsulin pump technology by knowing its full capabilities.

PROVIDED BY: KELLIE RODRIGUEZ, MSN, CDE, CPTDRI’S DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION SERVICES

INSULIN PUMP THERAPY: KELLIE’S TOP TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED

Your generous support is so critical and so appreciated! There are so many ways that you can help theDiabetes Research Institute find a cure. Below is a short list of easy ways to give, and we have additionalideas posted on our website. Go to: DiabetesResearch.org/Ways-to-Give

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Whether your family is new to the diabetes world or you’re just entering a different season of life with diabetes, the PEP Squad (Parents Empowering Parents) can give you the support you need to stay balanced and positive. The group that started with about 12 moms and twotherapists in a conference room at the DRI Foundation office in Florida, and later New York City and Long Island, has grown exponentially online (Facebook.com/groups/PEPsquadDRI).

With more than 1,000 members and growing, the PEP Squad grouppage on Facebook is a place where diabetes parents can bounceideas off one another, share daily stories and struggles, complain,vent, or mentor and shed new light. Someone is there, at any time ofday – even in the wee hours after that 3 a.m. BG check.

“The power of having a vehicle – other parents with skills – as soundingboards to decipher what is going on improves the way we and thepeople we listen to handle the repetitive challenges of diabetes,”said DRI’s Wendy Satin Rapaport, a clinical psychologist who helpedcreate the program in 2006. “Sometimes by helping someone else,we can better see how our own responses might require some updating. The process of venting, sharing strategies, and then mentoring is a gift that keeps giving.”

Some of the topics discussed include insurance issues, nighttimetesting, travel tips, facing fears, holiday hints, bragging rights (aboutthe brave kids!), tools, teens and tantrums. Whatever the issue maybe, there are usually comments or suggestions. However, please remember that everyone is different, and you should check with yourhealth care professionals before making any changes.

The DRI Foundation takes the opinions of this group seriously. When one member posted a concern about the group being “open,”it was immediately changed to a “closed” group to ensure that onlymembers are able to read posts. There is also valuable informationfor download or print.

PEP Squad members are telling their friends about it, and it has become an ever-expanding circle of parents who find comfort in“talking” to each other. You can tell by some of the feedback:

Krystal: I have "liked" this page for quite a while now...but when you

decided to make it a closed group, I set it to notify my newsfeed everytime there is a PEP post....you guys are precious and so encouraging.So even after 6 years of living with a type 1 son....thank you so muchfor being there! And I hope to be there for you too. :)

Cheryl: I was looking for a place where I could talk. My daughter,now 17 months old, was diagnosed with type 1 at 10 months old, andthere are a lot of times when I feel alone!!!!

Caralynne: I have found this group to be so helpful and supportive!

Shantelle: This group is just a bunch of fabulous people. We all sharethe same common enemy. People in this group truly understandwhat you’re going through.

Jamie: I'm sorry you have to be here, but please know you’re surroundedby a bunch of wonderful parents who totally get it. Ask anything, orjust vent, anytime. We are all in this together.

One mom wrote, “I've looked high and low for local support groupsand have had no luck. I would love to find another type 1 child for myson to connect with locally. Not sure if anyone would feel comfortableposting their city/state but it may be a good way to find other type 1families close to you.” Almost instantly, she received dozens of responses,and other parents were able to find connections, too.

A physical support group may not always be possible, and since timeis a scarce commodity with families today, online support groupssuch as the PEP Squad are an invaluable resource. Sometimes all youneed is to know you’re not alone. Often all it takes it is one word,and this one sums up the PEP Squad most accurately…

Lea Anne: Hugs.

Join the PEP Squad…any time, anywhere!

Keep in mind that you can also send an e-card to a loved one with a donation to commemorate holidays and other special occasions.Check out our adorable snowman made with the universal blue circlesymbol for diabetes. Find more at: DiabetesResearch.org/ecards

Keep Calm and Cure Diabetes

The ever-changing “Keep Calm and Carry On” saying has made its debutto the DRI family! Aptly altered to Keep Calm and Cure Diabetes, theT-shirts are available for purchase on our website. It’s perfect for

everyday casual wear, or to sport at walkathons or while doing other Diabetes Diplomat projects. The cost is $15 per shirt. Get one for thewhole family at: DiabetesResearch.org/Keep-Calm-and-Cure-Diabetes

A SUPERSTORM BRINGS OUT SUPER HEROES

We love Walgreens! And it’s not just because it’s our favoriteneighborhood stop for prescriptions, photos and a whole lot more.It’s not simply that the company is a trusted partner of the DRIFoundation that, in the past three years, has helped raise in excessof $750,000 for our cure-focused work – good reasons, yes…butthat’s not it.

It’s about people. We love the people at Walgreens who have personally joined with us to fight diabetes with everything they’vegot. It’s Roy Ripak, market vice president, whose hands-on leadershipapproach has ignited a movement throughout stores in the stateof Florida and beyond. It’s Georgia Lehoczky, market pharmacy director, whose passion and enthusiasm incites action in theirupper management team. It’s store managers like Victor Lehoczky,Tom Lehoczky, Clint Smethurst, Dan Espinosa and Sal Sastre, plusservice clerks, pharmacy staff and photo techs, who mirror thatsame dedication and drive.

These are the people who organize the Walk with Walgreens FamilyFun Day & Health Fair in support of the DRI – even though they worklong hours running a cadre of 24-hour stores; plus they have personallives, families, hobbies and dreams. They devote long hours, afterhours,signing on sponsors, getting vendors, securing entertainment, locatingvenues, and so on; and they do it for one reason. Just like you – theywant a cure for diabetes. And just like us, they’re “in it to end it,” asDRIF Vice President Tom Karlya would say!

What’s most exciting is that the third annual event, which is slatedfor Saturday, April 20, 2013, is going to be bigger and better than

ever! They’re going so big that the parks that have hosted theevents in the past just won’t cut it. The new location is Sun LifeStadium in Miami Gardens, home of the Miami Dolphins – so cool!Think balloons, face-painting, family activities, heart-thumpingmusic, free giveaways, refreshments, health booths and more…plus the camaraderie of being part of a community-wide effort.For those a little farther north, there will be a simultaneous eventin Port St. Lucie at Tradition Square.

Do you love Walgreens as much as we do? Then, get involved! Organize a family or office team and join us at the walk. Last year, - families like Tacher, Ferris, Greenwald and Schechter helped raisethousands of dollars. They wore group T-shirts to set themselvesapart from the crowd, held up signs and pictures of the person withdiabetes that they were walking for, and made this Walgreens-organized event a “DRI Family” event. If you’re not there, you’remissing! Can we count on you? Let us know by emailing NicoleOtto at notto@drif.org.

“We are so excited about this year's Walk with Walgreens,” saidJenn Tacher, who has organized Team Jace for the past three yearsin honor of her son who has type 1 diabetes.  “DRI scientists aredoing everything to find a cure for Jace.  So, I’m doing my part byhelping to raise money so they have the resources they need tomake that happen sooner.  I encourage everyone to come out tothe walk to support this effort.”

FAMILY TEAMS WALK WITH WALGREENSAND THE DRI

The Tachers organized Team Jace, which was thetop family fundraising team at last year’s walk.

As millions continue to struggle in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and the nor’easter that followed, we commend the efforts of somany courageous people who have risen as heroes in the wake of this tragedy. Worthy of sharing is the story of Jenna Katzman MacLaga,

a nurse who was working at a New York hospital on the night of the hurricane. She personally helped to evacuateher 23 patients from the 12th floor – with no elevators and no power! And, Jenna has type 1 diabetes. Windowswere breaking all around her, and the hospital was virtually surrounded by water from the East River. We canonly imagine how the stress and activity was affecting her blood sugar!

Thankfully, she is fine, but it was a harrowing experience for Jenna and many others. She and her co-workers areto be commended for their professionalism and heroism under the most extreme conditions. Do you knowsomeone else with diabetes whose Herculean efforts helped those in need during the storm? Share your storyon our Facebook at: Facebook.com/DiabetesResearch.org

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MOTOR MAVENS, BORN TO BE AT GOLD COAST CONCOURS/BIMMERSTOCK

AFL-CIO’S BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION TRADES DEPARTMENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO A CURE

On Sunday, September 9, more than 700 exotics and fine vehicles fromthe world’s most desired marquees lined the streets of downtown GlenCove, NY. Presented by Martino Auto Concepts/MAC Auto Couture andSONY, the 4th Annual Gold Coast Concours/Bimmerstock provided adream come true not only for thousands of spectators, but also forevent creators Joe LaPadula and Derek Pasch, who announced that theday’s proceeds reached a record $91,000 for the DRI!

"From a single conversation, this event has grown into one of the largestautomobile shows in the area. This event attracts car enthusiasts andvendors from around the country, and with our Diabetes Research Institute relationship we know that everything we do helps fund theeffort to find a cure,” said LaPadula.

While the day showcased Ferraris, Rolls Royces, Porsches, Mercedes andcustomized BMWs, in addition to several very limited edition cars, suchas a Lola, an Enzo Ferrari and several Ferrari Challenge racers, carsweren’t the sole attraction. The day also featured great food, live musicfrom The School of Rock, and a number of fabulous sweepstakes prizes.

DRI Foundation Long Island regional board Chairman Allan L. Pashcowexpressed thanks to LaPadula and Pasch, both from Martino Auto Concepts, SONY Corporation, and other event sponsors and committeemembers. He then went on to acknowledge Glen Cove Mayor RalphSuozzi and other local elected officials. Michael Puntillo was also acknowledged for donating the use of the village square. Special recog-nition was given to DRIF National Board member Bruce Waller, as wellas DRIF Long Island Regional Board member and Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, for all of their help organizing theevent. Dara Kris-Melnick was presented with a citation for her ongoingsupport of the DRI. She then spoke to the crowd about her battle withtype 1 diabetes, thanking everyone in attendance for supporting theDRI’s quest for a cure.

Sponsors included: Martino Auto Concepts/MAC Auto Couture; SONYCorporation; 3M; The Bristal; Competition BMW; Ecybermedia; Lomo-tion; PPG Single Source; Rallye BMW; Anchor Audi; BMW of Bayside; Habberstad BMW; Hassel BMW & Mini; VOS Motorsports; Laffey Associates and Leone Homes.

L-R: Derek Pasch and Joe LaPadula of Martino Auto Concepts; Councilman Tony Jimenez; Nassau County Legislator and DRIF board member Delia DeRiggi-Whitton; DRIF LI regional board Chairman Allan L. Pashcow; Mayor Ralph V. Suozzi; Councilman Timothy Tenke, Assemblyman Charles Lavine, Councilman NickDeleo, DRIF LI Regional Director Tony Childs; and Joe Manfredo.

More than a quarter of a century ago, the AFL-CIO’s Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD)committed to funding – and building – the Diabetes Research Institute facility. Since then, union membershave raised tens of millions of dollars to provide ongoing support of the DRI’s quest for a cure throughtheir annual Labor of Love weekend and nationwide DAD’s Day events.

Carrying the same mission to a new location in 2012, Labor of Love was held this year in Baltimore, MD, May19 - 21. The weekend began with the Annual Bricklayers’ and Allied Craftworkers’ Softball Slam, which wasplayed in Camden Yards at Oriole Park, thanks to the generosity of event host Peter Angelos. The ever-popularLabor of Love Golf Tournament took place at Baltimore Country Club. Awards dinners and receptions wereenjoyed by all, but the highlight for many was Labor Night at the Ballpark, where BCTD President SeanMcGarvey threw out the first pitch at the Orioles vs. Red Sox game. The fun-filled gathering attracted 400BCTD members, exceeding $600,000 in proceeds, more than ever before!

McGarvey, who was elected to serve as BCTD president after the passing of Mark Ayers, visited the Institutein June. Scientific Director Camillo Ricordi, M.D., and other researchers explained the studies underway intheir labs and how these projects intertwine to create a roadmap for a biological cure for diabetes. And McGarvey, who had previously promised to keep alive the partnership between the DRI and the BCTD, resolutely reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to the cause.

As word of DAD’s Day fundraisers rolled in, so did proof of the group’s relentless support. Mostly held inthe days and weeks surrounding Father’s Day, Dollars Against Diabetes campaigns across the nation involved golf outings, softball tournaments, bowling matches, street corner collections, motorcycle pokerruns, and more. The DRI and Foundation extend sincere thanks to the members of the BCTD and their family and friends who volunteer time and efforts every year to support the work underway at the DRI.

1. Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley(center) welcomes Labor of Love,

represented by DRI Foundation Vice President Tom Karlya (left) and BCTD

President Sean McGarvey, to Baltimore., 2. DRI Scientific Director Camillo Ricordi,

M.D., shares his gratitude with McGarveyin front of the plaque at the DRI that

says, “Built by the hearts and hands ofAmerica’s workers, whose generosity and

craftsmanship knows no bounds.”

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2

EVENTSDon Strock Diabetes Golf Classic

On May 9, former Miami Dolphins quarterback Don Strock (2nd from right) led 150golfers onto the courses at Miccosukee Golf and Country Club in Miami, FL, for his 29thannual golf classic. Presented by Miami Seaquarium, represented by Tom Smith (farright), the Don Strock Diabetes Classic once again featured a day spent hitting the links,followed by a cocktail reception and dinner program. As always, Strock led the exciting live auction after recognizing Tournament Chairman Bruce Fishbein (2nd fromleft) and his hardworking committee, composed mainly of members of the produceindustry. Proceeds surpassed $125,000, thanks to such patrons as Coca-Cola, which

served as Dinner and Goody Bag Sponsor and was represented by Giovanna Garcia-Pons (far left.) DRI Foundation COO Deborah Chodrow(center) extended gratitude to all in attendance, including a host of celebrity participants.

D.R.E.a.M.S. in the city

The seventh annual D.R.E.a.M.S. in the city (Diabetes, Research, Elegance and ModernSophistication) raised $650,000 thanks to Co-chairpersons Samantha Shanken Baker,Bonnie Inserra and Risa Pulver, as well as 500 generous guests. After the featured research project was introduced by the Late Show with David Letterman’s Alan Kalter,Tina Santi Flaherty made a matching gift challenge that was exceeded by the group’sgenerosity. Even 13-year-old Jake Cohen redirected his bar mitzvah gifts to the DRI! Thefabulous evening honored Bernd G. Heinz (right), president and CEO of The Heinz Group,LLC, and Art Smith (left), executive chef and owner of Joanne Trattoria, Table Fifty-Two,

and other acclaimed restaurants. Pictured with them (center) at 583 Park Avenue in New York, NY, on May 17 is DRI Scientific Director CamilloRicordi, M.D.

Young Society of Loveand Hope Haute Tea

Deemed South Florida’s socialevent of spring, Haute Tea washeld by the Young Society of Loveand Hope in collaboration withNeiman Marcus Bal Harbour at TheSt. Regis Bal Harbour Resort onMay 18. The tea-inspired luncheonand fashion presentation beganwith a champagne reception for

the 125 ladies in attendance, each elegantly adorned with her finest hat and heels. Event Chair Jillian Posner, dressed in a matching pink Arturo Rios hat and Valentino heels with a striped black and white dress designed by Miriam de la Cruz, showed gratitude to her committee(pictured), as well as the vendors who helped create the beautiful event, and media sponsors Miami Magazine and SocialMiami.com.

Brenda Novak’s Online Auction for Diabetes Research

Famed author Brenda Novak (pictured) and her supporters have broken another record with her Online Auction forDiabetes Research . Held at BrendaNovak.com throughout the month of May, the auction has raised a cumulativetotal of $1.6 million – $306,000 in 2012! Held in honor of Brenda’s son, Thad, 15, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 5, the eighth annual fundraiser attracted more than 6,000 bidders from across the country and fromaround the world, eclipsing last year’s record-setting number of 5,000. More than 1,000 authors, including SteveBerry, Barry Eisler, Eloisa James, Nicholas Sparks, Diana Gabaldon and Janet Evonovich, contributed their time, expertise or items – another personal best for Novak who reaches out to her literary colleagues for donations eachyear. The top five items with the highest winning bids included a Celine Dion Meet & Greet, a literary evaluation byauthor Daniela Rapp of St. Martin’s Press, two African safaris and tickets to artist Ceelo Green’s Las Vegas Show.

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Designed specifically for anyone on insulin, pump users or injection-based users, Mastering Your Diabetes is aneducational program held at the Diabetes Research Institute four times per year. The June 18-22 session was aspecial one, geared for PWDs aged 1-18. Eight kids and teens, accompanied by their parents, came from as faraway as Iowa, Philadelphia and the Bahamas, to learn how to optimize their independence. Participants metdaily with a physician, nurse and dietician for a blood glucose and insulin management review. They practicedcounting carbs in the food lab and making exercise fun in the wellness center. The group members also expressed their individual thoughts and feeling about diabetes through art and were privy to a social worker’s

helpful tips for living better with diabetes. Students finished out the five days of interactive learning by competing in an exciting “Who Wantsto be MYD Grandmaster” diabetes trivia game.

Mastering Your Diabetes

Novices and experienced card players alike enjoyed the Second Annual Buy In for a CureTexas Hold'em Tournament on June 14. More than 100 guests joined in the action, helping to raise $40,000. Trophies and prizes were presented to winners, such as thosepictured. Guests also enjoyed fabulous food, cigars, fine wines and spirits at the beautifulGarden City Hotel in Long Island, NY.

Buy In for a Cure

Hosted by the Ron Darling Foundation for the fourth year, the Ron Darling CelebrityGolf Classic attracted more than 100 golfers and several celebrities to Pine HollowCountry Club in East Norwich, NY, on July 9. After a day on the course, participants enjoyed a dinner and awards ceremony. Pictured with Ron Darling (right) and FiremanEd, NY Jets superfan (left) receiving the Ron Darling Cup is the winning team from FTIConsulting. Darling serves on the DRIF’s national board of directors and is dedicated tohelping the DRI eradicate type 1 diabetes, which his youngest son was diagnosed withat age 11.

Ron Darling Celebrity Golf Classic

Longtime friends Erin Berg Hager and Gary Edward Bailey (pictured) celebrated their milestone birthdays with aBaroque Bash at The CocoPlum in Coral Gables, FL. In lieu of gifts, they asked their friends and family members tomake donations to the E.R.A.S.E. Diabetes Fund for the DRI. Subsequently, the party held on July 28 raised in excess of $100,000! The festivities included cocktails, dinner, dancing and entertainment by cirque performers. TheBerg Family has been supporting the DRI for more than two decades, ever since Erin was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a teen. Now, a mom with a family of her own, she carries on the philanthropic mission of E.R.A.S.E.– Erin’s Race Against the Stress and Effects of Diabetes.

E.R.A.S.E. Diabetes

Held at the beautiful Pine Hollow Country Club in East Norwich, NY, on August 6, this annualfundraising tournament bearing the name of New York Ranger hockey legend Rod Gilbert(cent er) was once again directed by Bob Zuckerman (far left) and Eric Reeps (2nd from right.)This year the committee was pleased to honor Continental Home Loans, Inc., Executive VicePresident Sam Baretta (2nd from left.) Also pictured is Anthony Vitale (far right). After a dayof birdies and bogies, 150 golfers enjoyed a delicious dinner, a fabulous array of desserts, andan incredible live auction. The popular event is held each year in memory of Helaine ShariWhite and Anthony John Vitale.

Rod Gilbert DRI Golf Classic

Pig Roast

Cocktails for a CURE

Leslie Hsu and Greg Besner hosted their first Cocktails for a CURE fundraiser in New York City at theHudson Terrace nightclub on the evening of September 15. Featuring wine and spirits, fabulous food,music and dancing, the event was organized in honor of their 10-year-old daughter, Willa, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes shortly after her 4th birthday (pictured with DRI's Dr. Luca Inverardi). TheBesner Family was honored that more than 200 friends and family joined them in their fight for a cureat the event. Willa sold bracelets to raise funds on her own, and she and Leslie visited the DRI a fewweeks later to deliver a donation from Willa’s Wish Foundation for $30,000. According to Greg, nextyear will be “an even bigger event and an even bigger donation!”

EVENTS

The Otten Family of East Islip, NY, once again organized their popularPig Roast on Saturday, September 22. More than 200 guests enjoyed the festivities of this old-fashioned barbeque, which was held under big,white tents in the Otten’s back yard. Pictured are (l-r) DRI Foundation VPTom Karlya, Michael, Gigi and Nicholas Otten, plus Anthony Childs, DRIFoundation Long Island regional director.

Phil Peterson’s Key West Poker Run

Phil Peterson’s 40th Anniversary Key West Poker Run kicked off for thousands of bikerson September 14 with a gorgeous ride through the Florida Keys. The destination wasDuval Street in Key West, FL, and the event’s traditional moniker as South Florida’sbiggest motorcycle party weekend of the year remained intact. The affair was even morefestive for Miguel Castellanos of Orlando, who won a new Harley Davidson 883 Sportster Iron by holding the best hand in the final Texas Hold’em game. Pictured thank-ing the crowd are (l-r) DRI Foundation Associate Director of Special Events Nicole Otto,Dirk Peterson and Drew Peterson.

Spin for a Cure at Sky

On August 19, Sky Athletic Club hosted an indoor cycling event in thetown of Rockville Centre on Long Island. All of the proceeds from this one-hour spin class benefited the DRI. In addition, Sky Athletic Club generously provided use of their bikes and four dynamic instructors, whomotivated the class to ride like the wind! Special thanks are extended toThe Pellizzi Family and friends (pictured.)

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Louis Brindisi, an attorney in Utica, NY, held his second "Brindisi Coaltion for a Cure" event on Saturday, September 15, at the historic Fort Schuyler Club in Utica. His youngest son, Louis Thomas Brindisi, 14, developedtype 1 diabetes at the age of 11. He vowed to help the DRI move toward a cure, and raising in excess of $50,000with this year’s event, he’s keeping his promise. To date he has raised almost $150,000. Pictured with Brindisi(center) are: another of his sons, NY State Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi; Utica Mayor Rob Palmeri; DRI Foundation VP Tom Karlya; and Senator Joe Griffo.

Brindisi Coalition for a Cure

Empire Ball Kick-Off

The New York Real Estate Division of the DRI kickedoff the 2012 season for their signature event, theEmpire Ball, at The Durst Organization in New York,NY, on October 18. Members of the group’s board ofgovernors and committees, plus event sponsorsand honorees, all of whom are connected to the realestate industry, were presented with Cycle of Discovery Awards and recognized for their generosity.To be held on t he memorable date of 12-12-12, theEmpire Ball is expected to once again raise in excess

of $1 million for the DRI. Pictured are Empire Ball Co-chairs Peter DiCapua (far left) and Charlie Rizzo (far right) with (l-r) Alex Samilenko, JamesJ. Migliore, Dennis Sherry, Eric Schnellbacher, and Mick Carnevale.

Hosted by Jack Panico, founder of Fashion & Beauty Week, and president andCEO of Panico Salon and Spas, the Fashion & Beauty Week mixer andSpring/Summer Designer Preview Party was held at Club Vibe in Riverdale, NJ,on October 4. The affair generated excitement for the upcoming Fashion &Beauty Week, to be held in the spring of 2013. Last year, it raised more than$47,000 for the DRI while showcasing the state of New Jersey with its high-fashion people, places and style. Pictured are models in Sue Wongdresses.

Fashion & Beauty Week Mixer

Ranked one of the top courses in the U.S. and the world by Golf magazine, Winged Foot Golf Club playedhost to over 200 golfers on a crisp sunny day at The Donaldson Organization Golf Outing on October1 in Mamaroneck, NY. Benefiting the DRI for the second year and raising more than $500,000, the eventhonored Robert Gorton of Gorton & Partners, LLC and Peter Marchetto of Tishman Construction. It waschaired by D. Robert (Bob) Donaldson (left), whose son, Douglas R. Donaldson (right), serves on DRIF’sLong Island regional board, and whose grandson, Matthew, was diagnosed a few years ago with type1 diabetes.

The Donaldson Organization Golf Outing

CALENDARChampions for Charity December 2012 / LONG ISLANDAn annual holiday shopping benefitdesigned to raise funds for over 80 not-for-profit organizations, apercentage of sales will be donatedto the DRI when using a Championsfor Charity Card throughout themonth. Shop, shop!

Pleasures of the PalateJanuary 13, 2013 / FLORIDAThis spectacular, four-course gour-met dinner, designed and preparedby legendary Chef Norman Van Aken,will be paired with specially-selectedwines for each course. The night willalso feature a live and silent auctionof rare, fine wines, spectacular travelexperiences and more.

It’s a Charity Thing!January 30, 2013 / NEW YORKTo be held at Gotham Comedy Club, stand-up comic Alyse Kennybrings you some of the area’s funni-est comedians for a night of biglaughs for a great cause.

Love and Hope BallFebruary 2, 2013 / FLORIDAThe 39th Annual Love and Hope Ballwill be held at the Westin DiplomatResort and Spa. This extraordinaryblack-tie gala will feature a grandcocktail reception, a sumptuous dinner, dancing and live entertainment.

A Gift of Love…A Gift of HopeFebruary 11, 2013 / FLORIDATo be held at The Polo Club in Boca Raton, the 14th annual event, organized by the Palm Beach Auxiliary, will feature a delightfullunch, a unique boutique filled withfashionable items, a raffle and an afternoon of card-playing.

three D March 1, 2013 / FLORIDACome dine, drink and discover withus at this exciting new event to beheld at the Rubell Family Collectionin Miami's Design District. Enjoy cre-ative gourmet cuisine, jaw-droppinglive art performances and more.

Carnival for a Cure March 10, 2013 / NEW YORKThe seventh annual event will beheld at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Manhattan and feature live entertainment, delicious food,games for tots and teens, superprizes and a fabulous silent auction.

Kids Party for a Cure March 10, 2013 / LONG ISLANDThis afternoon of fun for the entirefamily at Dave and Buster’s will feature video games, inflatables, face painting and more, plus a buffet dinner for the whole familyand a silent auction.

American Fine Wine Competition Gala April 4, 2013 / FLORIDAThis sixth annual affair will be heldat the Boca Raton Resort and Club.Guests will taste more than 600 of the finest wines made in the U.S.while enjoying world class food, entertainment, auctions and ambience.

Walk with Walgreens Family Fun Day & Health FairApril 20, 2013 / FLORIDASee page 14 for details.

Cooking for a CureApril 2013 / LONG ISLANDTo be held at Page One Restaurantin Glen Cove, this tasteful event includes an auction, sweepstakesdrawing and live entertainment.

The Crystal Ball May 4, 2013 / LONG ISLANDThis annual black-tie gala alwayssparkles with a fabulous cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, auctions,dancing and more at the beautifulGarden City Hotel.

D.R.E.a.M.S. in the city May 7, 2013 / NEW YORKFeaturing specialty cocktails, a seated dinner, live an d silent auctions and dancing, this eighth annual event, will be hosted by the Late Show's Alan Kalter at The Pierre Hotel.

For information on the events or to make reservations, visitDiabetesResearch.org or call one of the DRI Foundation officeslisted below.

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation National Office200 South Park RoadSuite 100Hollywood, FL 33021

address service requested

Non-Profit Org.US Postage

PAIDDiabetes Research

Institute Foundation

DRIfocus

DRIfocus

The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation supports the Diabetes Research Institute at the University of Miami Leonard M. MillerSchool of Medicine, whose mission is to develop and rapidly apply the most promising research to treat and cure those now livingwith 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.

Marketing & Communications Dept.Lori Weintraub, APRLauren SchreierNatasha NorrisLaurie Cummings

ContributorsGary KleimanJill SalterAimee Siegel-HarrisMitra Zehtab, M.D.Stacy Zolotin

is a publication of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation.Fall 2012 / Volume 40 / Issue 1

National Office200 South Park Road, Suite 100 Hollywood, FL 33021 Phone: (954) 964-4040 Fax: (954) 964-7036 info@drif.org

Northeast Regional Office381 Park Avenue South, Suite 1118New York, NY 10016 Phone: (212) 888-2217 Fax: (212) 888-2219neregion@drif.org

Long Island Regional Office410 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 201Jericho, NY 11753Phone: (516) 822-1700 Fax: (516) 822-3570 liregion@drif.org

DIABETES RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOUNDATION

PhotographyCarl Cox Photography Marc S. Levine Photography Magique StudiosLynn Nathanson Pete Pellizzi Teekay Mitchell Zachs

DesignFranz Franc Design Group Inc.