By Katherine Waters

Sun Staff Intern

ONEIDA – The early hour of the morning did not stop bicyclists from gathering at Verona Beach on Oneida Lake Sunday for the annual Tour de Cure. Rather than sleep in, 20 members of Team Chenango, headed by Dr. Scott Cohen, gathered to bike a total of 1,392.5 miles in support of diabetes research.

The American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure is a cycling event held in 40 states to raise money for diabetes research. The rides range from 15 to 100 miles, but the goal is the same for every rider no matter skill level: Help the 20.8 million people who are currently living with diabetes, one third of whom are undiagnosed, and create awareness for those who may be at risk.

Currently there is no cure for diabetes, but a healthy lifestyle with consistent monitoring can keep the disease in check, which is why Dr. Cohen wanted to lead Team Chenango through training and fundraising. Team Chenango raised a total of $9,290 – which was double their goal.

“There is a big need for people to get fit,” said Dr. Cohen. “Ninety percent of adult diabetes cases are related to weight.” Due to his own battle with obesity, Dr. Cohen wanted to be a role model for his team mates and community members.