In Kentucky, over 260,000 people have diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2), a number that represents over 8 percent of our population. This disease cost Kentucky almost $3 billion (in health care and lost productivity) during 2004. This number will only increase without continued support from our elected officials. The complications of diabetes are horrific and include blindness, kidney failure and heart disease.

 

One federal program that is producing real results and accelerating our timeline to a cure for diabetes is the Special Diabetes Program, or SDP. The SDP has produced tangible research breakthroughs including the continuous glucose monitor and new drugs to treat diabetes complications.

 

Thankfully, Sen. Mitch McConnell understands the impact of diabetes in Kentucky and supports this important program. McConnell played a critical role in ensuring that the Medicare bill passed by Congress last year included a one-year extension of the SDP, and I know that he is working diligently this year to help finish the job by securing a multi-year extension of the program.

 

My 10-year-old daughter, Margaret, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of two, and her life has been changed forever. We focus every day on trying to give her a normal life. Despite working hard to regulate her glucose levels, she still deals with the reality of daily shots, severe insulin reactions, and the inevitable complications.

 

What my daughter and the thousands of others dealing with this disease need is a cure. The SDP is getting us closer to one. I am grateful to Sen. McConnell for his efforts in this area and what he is doing to help m y daughter and the millions of others who struggle with type1!