On Wednesday, May 17, grey skies cleared up just in time for the Don Strock Diabetes Classic, which is presented by Miami Seaquarium and held at Miccosukee Golf & Country Club. Now in its 23rd year, the event is deemed one of South Floridas longest running celebrity/amateur charity golf tournaments.
According to Tournament Chairman Bruce Fishbein, the event raised more than $177,000 for the Diabetes Research Institute, pushing the cumulative event proceeds toward $2 million.
(l-r) Former Dolphin players Uwe Von Schamann, Bruce Hardy, Nat Moore, and Tournament Host Don Strock pose before tee-off with Tournament Chairperson Bruce Fishbein.
Tournament Host Don Strock was joined by fellow former Miami Dolphins Bob Brudzinski, Kerry Glenn, Bruce Hardy, Don McNeal, Nat Moore, and Uwe Von Schamann, plus current Oakland Raider Madre Hill. A day of contest and camaraderie on the course was followed by a cocktail reception and awards dinner, plus silent and live auctions. Barbara Singer, one of the original founders of the DRI Foundation, commended Strocks longtime commitment by saying, “His goal is our goal, and that is to put an end to this disease.”
Next 12-year-old Karen Ripoll and her mother, Teresa, took the microphone, sobering the crowd with a description of their everyday challenges. “Since Karen was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 7, grocery shopping has become a big ordeal, and dining out is stressful,” Teresa explained. She sets her alarm twice each night to check Karens blood sugar.
“Diabetes has become a big part of my life, but it doesnt control it,” said Karen, sharing her hope with the audience. “With your help and mine, a cure is just around the corner for the scientists at the Diabetes Research Institute.”
