Day of Hope for Diabetes in Rancho Mirage

Hundreds of people were out for a common cause Saturday at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage to learn more about diabetes and how to prevent it at the 17th annual “Jim Cook Day of Hope for Diabetes.”

Diabetes is a disease that affects nearly 300 million people around the world. The World Health Organization calls diabetes an “epidemic” with more than 50,000 diabetics in California alone.

“My husband is diabetic so we’re checking out to see what we can learn,” said Dorothy McPherson, of Indio.

Chuck Fasilis, the president of the Desert Diabetes Club, says the Coachella Valley is no exception.

“The amount of people with diabetes is in the valley is growing, especially in hispanic communities in younger people,” said Fasilis.

There were nearly 47 exhibitors promoting healthy living and showcasing the latest technology and treatments for those with diabetes. Blood pressure and blood sugar screenings were also available.

The event featured celebrity keynote speaker and diabetes activist Alan Thicke, from the sitcom “Growing Pains.” Thicke’s son has had diabetes for nearly 34 years.

“I just took my blood sugar test as well. You know checking up on the whole family.”

Organizations like the American Diabetes Association are helping make learning about diabetes fun, giving the community a chance to take a spin on the “Wheel of Good Fortune.” With each spin came more information about the disease and even an exercise challenge for people at the event.

“The idea is to beat it so our grandchildren don’t have to deal with it.”

The event was named after Jim Cook, from Palm Desert who was the founder of the “Day of Hope for Diabetes.” Cook who also suffered from the disease, was a fierce advocate hoping to spread diabetes awareness throughout the valley.