FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 20, 2001
Ameircan Diabetes Association Contact:
Jerry Franz 703/299-2054
Donovan McNabb Foundation Contact:
Nancy Mitchell 847/487-1261
mitchellnj@msn.com
Donovan McNabb Named National Spokesperson For American Diabetes Association
Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback and Family to Raise
Awareness of Diabetes and Encourage Proper Testing
Philadelphia, Pa. - The American Diabetes Association announces today that Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback Donovan McNabb will serve as a National Spokesperson to promote overall awareness of diabetes and urge the public to receive proper testing.
McNabb, entering his third season as the Eagles’ quarterback, will appear at today’s Civic Leader’s Luncheon in Philadelphia to announce his involvement with the American Diabetes Association through his Donovan McNabb Foundation.
Also joining McNabb at the luncheon will be his father, Sam, who was diagnosed with diabetes during his son’s junior year at Syracuse University.
“Diabetes has affected the lives of those close to me,” said Donovan, whose maternal grandmother died from complications associated with diabetes. “I am hoping that my family and I will be able to raise awareness of the disease and urge everyone to be properly tested.”
In an effort to raise awareness, McNabb and his father are working with the American Diabetes Association and have produced a public service announcement that is scheduled to air this summer beginning in Philadelphia and his hometown of Chicago.
In addition, McNabb and his father Sam will serve as this year’s Honorary Co-Chairmen for the Philadelphia area’s America’s Walk for Diabetes™ on October 7. The Donovan McNabb Foundation is committed to delivering its message on diabetes throughout the year.
The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading nonprofit health organization providing diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the American Diabetes Association conducts programs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The mission of the organization is to prevent and cure diabetes, and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. To fulfill this mission, the American Diabetes Association funds research, publishes scientific findings, provides information and other services to people with diabetes, their families, health care professionals and the public and advocates for scientific research and for the rights of people with diabetes.