CHIP FM

It'll soon be time to strap on the swim trunks and dive into the frigid waters of the Ottawa River to raise money for diabetes research and support services. The 12th annual JJ's Polar Bear Dip for Diabetes in support of the Canadian Diabetes Association will take place on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. at the Pembroke Marina as part of the city's winter carnival, Snospree. "This event not only raises money for the association but also raises awareness of diabetes in Renfrew County," said Mike Felske, co-coordinator of the association's Pembroke and District Branch. "We can brag about many things living in this beautiful area of ours, but unfortunately the number of diabetics is not one of them. At epidemic proportions in Renfrew County, any and all support and education is needed to help the many people who have been diagnosed as diabetic and also prediabetic." Diabetes is a condition that affects 2.4 million Canadians; however, that number is projected to rise to three million. More than six million Canadians are living with prediabetes, which increases their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Within the Champlain Local Health Integration Network, diabetes is 133 per cent higher in Renfrew County than anywhere else.