Republic Bank Supports Diabetes Association of Barbados

In Barbados, diabetes affects one in five individuals and their families. Barbados has also been noted as having the highest rate of amputations associated with diabetes complications. With these statistics in hand, Republic Bank for several years has assisted the Diabetes Association of Barbados (DAB) in raising awareness and in 2013 this relationship was further cemented with the donation of a mobile unit to enhance the association’s national outreach and educational programs.

During the month of November, with November 14th being celebrated globally as World Diabetes Day, the DAB has increased its activities and Republic Bank has assisted the association in raising funds and awareness. The association hosted its Blue Circle 5k Walk/ Run with a 15k Iron Man Challenge and close to one hundred of the Bank’s staff, family and friends participated to show its support.

On November 13th, the Bank took its outreach to the heart of Barbados, Bridgetown, where the mobile unit was strategically parked in the Independence Square and persons were able to receive free health checks and complete the Diabetes Risk Assessment Test.

Mrs. Susan Torry, General Manager Retail Banking Republic Bank noted that the Bank is pleased to continuously work with the Diabetes Association and raise awareness on how persons can prevent and live with diabetes. “Healthy eating and exercise is a big part, however the effective management of diabetes is essential in reducing diabetes complications. This initiative is part of the Bank’s social outreach program The Power to Make a Difference where essentially the Bank seeks to create a positive difference in the communities we serve”, Torry explained. Torry commended the work of the DAB and reaffirmed the commitment of the Bank to the cause.