Saturday, December 14, 2024

The San Pedro Diabetes Association holds Fundraiser

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The San Pedro Chapter of the Belize Diabetes Association, formed on November 15th, 2011 held their first fundraiser on Sunday February 12th at the Lion’s Den. The fashion show fundraiser marks the first in its kind, going towards a Dialysis Center for the Island.

The San Pedro Sun spoke with Pablo Sosa, Chairperson for the SPDA;

“We have many things in plan right now. Our priority is to get this dialysis center opened here on the island. As you are aware right now only Belize City and Cayo have dialysis machines, so it’s very costly and hard for us people here in San Pedro to get the service. There are many people here in San Pedro that are diabetic and they need to get treatment. It’s very expensive to travel and some people have to do it twice a week.”

The association is in the process of formulating a budget that would encompass the acquisition of a dialysis machine as well as allot for the daily operation of a center that would house the machine. According to Sosa;

“Right now we are getting the correct amount; cost and daily operations of a center. Hopefully by the end of the month we will have that. As soon as we get that, we’re going to do a massive radio-thon to collect more funds.”

The fashion show fundraiser was filled with entertainment. Starting off the night, attendees listened to the DJ Polin Show as they awaited the commencement of the show. MC for the night was Geraldo Badilo.
Despite a late start, the show was filled with energetic dances by the San Pedro Dance Company. Models of all ages sashayed and showcased a variety of colorful outfits.

The organization would like to thank everyone that participated or contributed in any way to make their first fundraiser a success especially: DJ Polin, San Pedro Dance Company, Mambo Chill, Island Gear, Moondancer, Toucan Shops, Top Notch, Dudes & Divas, Charlene Woods, Felix Ayuso, Mr. Jade – Jhoshi Alexander, Diego, Elina Palma, Natalie Arceo, Eli Oliva, Yari Flores, Abby Williams, the general public and all the models that donated their time and talents.

The Association currently counts on the support of nine active members. The general public is invited to be part of this group. Mr. Sosa stated,

“You don’t have to be a diabetic patient to become one of us. You could be a member or a friend. A member will pay $20 for the year while as a friend all you have to do is give support, attend meetings when possible and help in fundraisings and so forth.”

The group meets weekly on Tuesdays at the Ruiz residence at 7:30PM. According to Sosa, anyone wanting to be a part of the new group can contact him at 624-8424 or Hipolito “Polo” Ruiz at 624-3609.

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