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ADA responds to the Hurricane Katrina disaster

On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina, a deadly Category 4 storm, hit the Gulf Coast of the United States leaving widespread devastation in its wake. In response to the unprecedented damage to the health care infrastructure and the challenges faced by federal, state and local relief entities to adequately respond to the health care needs of the people affected -- particularly the more 205,000 people with diabetes in the hardest hit areas -- the American Diabetes Association (ADA) felt compelled to take immediate action.

In the early days and weeks of the hurricane response and recovery efforts, the ADA responded to specific unmet needs of people affected by diabetes through our network of constituents. In instances where other entities were better equipped to respond, such as the processing of health care volunteers by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support relief efforts in the region, the ADA served as a conduit of credible and timely information that was provided to the public and health care providers through our National Call Center (1-800-DIABETES), as well as our Web site at diabetes.org. All of these efforts provided a wealth of timely, reliable, and relevant information on a variety of medical and public health issues.

During a crisis like the recent Hurricane Katrina and other natural disasters, it is difficult to provide online medical information that can help each and every person with diabetes affected by this devastating disaster. Diabetes is a complex disease and affects people differently. That said, there are several basic guidelines to follow. Plus, there are additional considerations to take into account, including looking out for wound infections, and realizing the importance of washing your hands.

The American Diabetes Association would also like to thank you for your willingness to help other Americans during a time of need.

Message to donors from the Pennington Diabetes Relief Team


We extend our heartfelt thanks to the people from all over the United States and abroad who donated diabetes supplies to our relief effort. Such generosity and goodwill from complete strangers has made a big difference to many people with diabetes displaced by Hurricane Katrina, and has given all of us a lift during this trying time.

Our insulin stock is now sufficient to meet projected needs. In order to focus our resources on the critical task of distribution, we respectfully ask that no more donations be sent.

On behalf of the people your gifts have enabled us to serve, thank you again for your generosity and kindness.

The Pennington Diabetes Relief Team

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* Updated Friday, November 11, 2005