Dr. Kirk Harris recognizes the importance of diabetic awareness and prevention — not only does he recognize it, he pedals for it — and he has set goals to that end through fundraising in the NC Tour de Cure.

According to Harris, thanks to many of his community friends and optometric colleagues, he placed in the top six for individual fundraising efforts at last year’s event.

“This was a fantastic demonstration of how our community recognizes the importance of diabetic awareness and prevention,” said Harris.

Harris says he, as well as his fellow fundraisers and contributors, appreciate the complications of the disease, it’s effects on both physical and visual health and how many lives are affected all around us.

“I am riding because the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure is so much more than a cycling event to me,” Harris explained. “It is my opportunity to change the future and make a positive impact in the lives of those who are affected by diabetes.”

Diabetes can lead to severe vision problems and blindness.

Harris considers the difference the ADA makes in the lives of diabetics worth supporting. He has displayed this support by raising money this year.

“This is all made possible through generous contributions and events like Tour de Cure,” Harris stated.

This year, Harris is scheduled to ride more than 200 miles in the NC Tour de Cure during May 17-18, joining some 1,000-plus riders in the state to further the fight against diabetes.

“With our collective strength in numbers, if each person would donate, the goal I have set for myself can easily be achieved,” Harris said. “Together, we can reach the fundraising goal and take our stand against diabetes.”