Groundbreaking Research at Csu Draws Attention of Colorado Foundation for Diabetes Research; Fundraiser Set for May 24 Rockies-Cubs Game to Support Ongoing Search for Treatment

Colorado State University researcher Douglas Ishii drew attention from around the world a couple of years ago for his work that showed promise in treating the complications of diabetic neuropathy, a debilitating condition that affects more than 1.5 million Americans.

Based on this promise of possible relief for millions, the Colorado Foundation for Diabetes Research is sponsoring a special fundraising initiative at Coors Field at 7 p.m. May 24 when slugger Sammy Sosa and the Chicago Cubs are in town to take on the Colorado Rockies.

The catered fundraiser, which will take place in the Warning Track Suite at Coors Field, is open to the public. Proceeds from the ticket sales ($100 each) will go to support Ishii’s work. In addition to the fundraiser during the game, organizers will host a fundraising benefit post-game party at the Wynkoop Brewing Company ($15 tickets), near the ballpark. Several Rockies and Cubs are scheduled to attend, along with former Broncos players including Haven Moses and Mark Jackson and others. In addition, Denver celebrities Tom Green, Vic Lombardi, Carol McKinley are planning to take part in the festivities, which will include a silent auction. For tickets or more information, call (303) 804-9911 or (303) 798-5326.

Ishii’s groundbreaking research, heralded in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Denver Post and Denver Rocky Mountain News, showed in laboratory experiments that replacing a hormone known as insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) can lead to relief of some of the painful conditions associated with diabetes. He and his research team are at work on developing possible treatments for this serious condition.

Patients with diabetic neuropathy can loose the protective sense of touch and pain, resulting in poorly healing injuries that contribute to 80,000 limb amputations annually. Impotence, weakness, gastrointestinal and bladder problems and early death from cardiovascular complications are among other manifestations of neuropathy. The total health care cost for diabetes in the United States exceeds $100 billion.

Proceeds from the May 24 fundraisers also will benefit the Friends of Jake Foundation at Colorado State, the funds of which are dedicated to providing veterinary care for guide, hearing and assistance dogs when their disabled partners cannot afford such services.