Tenth Annual 'Eat For A Cure' Event Thursday

Over 44 years ago, Potomac resident Barbara Kaplowitz was diagnosed with Type 1 insulin-dependent diabetes.

The prognosis was grim for the then-10-year-old. She was told she would likely become blind and could never have children. Physicians said she would not live past the age of 35.

Kaplowitz has learned to manage her diabetes and its complications. Through research and technology, her treatment has become easier to manage. But there is still more research to be done, and Kaplowitz and her family have set out to raise funds to support the American Diabetes Association (ADA) in finding a cure.

On Thursday, Sept. 22, from 5-10 p.m., the Kaplowitz family and the will host the 10th annual “Eat For A Cure” fundraiser. More than 150 people are expected to support the event. 

“It’s a very festive evening, filled with families and friends who come out to support this important cause,” Kaplowitz said. “Everyone has a good time with their friends and a wonderful dinner. We usually have so many people come that the line is out the door.”

According to the ADA website, nearly 26 million Americans live with diabetes, and one in three children will become diabetic in their lifetime.

Kaplowitz is raising funds in hopes that researchers will find the cure. Over the course of 10 years, her family and friends have raised more than $150,000, she said.

California Tortilla will donate part of the event’s profits to the cause. Another fundraiser, “Step-Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes,” will take place Oct. 22.

“It’s an inexpensive way to donate, and to have dinner at the same time,” Kaplowitz said. “It’s really too late for me to be cured, but I am hoping a cure will be found for the next generation.”

Correction: The original story misstated the amount of California Tortilla's donation. We regret the error.