According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of Americans diagnosed with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes has increased from 5.6 million in 1980 to 20.9 million in 2011 – and counting. The Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation (DRWF), a 501c3 non-profit organization founded in 1993, is a leading force in the prevention, management, and research into a cure, of the silent yet widespread disease.

The DRWF’s ultimate mission is providing assistance in finding the cure for diabetes. While the cure has yet to be discovered, the dedicated men and women behind DRWF provide patients with the essential care in the management of the disease and its complications. Many of these complications are detrimental to the enjoyment of a good quality of life while a few are life-threatening in nature.

The organization, thus, applies a two-pronged approach, namely, the provision of support for patients via services including information and education; and the provision of funds for researchers who work toward the discovery of a cure. To date, the DRWF has awarded over $25 million in grants for research and development as well as education to world-class institutions including hospitals.

DRWF also conducts national awareness campaigns to raise public awareness about diabetes including its risk factors and symptoms, management and care, and complications. Its activities include community outreach programs designed to increase the awareness of patients and their families as well as healthcare professionals and the community regarding diabetes. It also provides support for healthcare professionals via advisory literature and educational events.

Of all these activities, the organization’s funding of scientific and clinical research studies may well have the biggest impact. With a cure, millions of diabetics around the world can enjoy a better quality of life and a longer life.

The organization accepts donations and contributions toward its cause. Donors can contribute in several ways, such as online donations, phone donations, and mail donations as well as participation in fundraisers and activities.