Only a few short weeks to go!

I can't believe that the Tour is in about 3 weeks. It seems like it was just January and now it's almost June.

I'm so excited to welcome everyone to the Tour de Cure on June 6. Our planning committee has been working so hard to ensure that we haven't forgotten a single detail. Now as we get closer, Training Rides are happening, Turn In & Tune Up Days are going on and the fundraising ramps up into full swing.

We are so happy to host a fun ride for everyone but at the end of the day what always amazes me is the generosity of the Western New York community when it comes to raising dollars for the American Diabetes Association. That is what we are here for - to raise money to find a CURE for diabetes and to continue to research advances in the treatment and prevention of diabetes. It is because of the generosity of our corporate sponsors that each dollar that YOU raise can go to support the research, education, and advocacy efforts of the Association.

At first, it may seem like a daunting task to have to raise money to participate - but at the end of the day we must remember that we are asking for dollars to support the ADA - to fund research and education and advocacy. There are 140,000 WNYers who live with diabetes everyday. 1 out of 3 babies born will develop diabetes. We need to FIGHT diabetes, we need to work together to find a cure that can change lives. That $150 that you raise will pay for 3 hours of diabetes research. That $150 makes a difference.

The dollars you raise goes to help our WNY community in the form of research grants at UB and WNY Diabetes Center, educational programs and advocacy days here in WNY, Albany and DC... you are making a tangible difference in the lives of people right here in your community.

Don't forget - you are making a difference. I'll say it again.. by riding and coming together to show your support and by raising dollars... YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE. Tell people why you ride. Tell people the reason you participate. What motivates you can help motivate others to give to a cause you care about.... and don't forget to ask .... You'll be surprised what you may get...