DIABETES care is to receive a tremendous boost through a local businessman's pledge to complete what many might consider an arduous, if not impossible, task.

Giorgio Zanol is to run the London Marathon on April 17 ? a 26.2 mile race along the streets of the English capital. The president and managing director of Lindo's Group of Companies signed up for the competition with the commitment that he would raise at least ?1,500 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

On hearing of his challenge, however, the Argus Group asked if it might come on board. The company will now give ?1,500 to the JDRF and has agreed to match Mr. Zanol's fund-raising efforts ? to a total of $10,000 ? with a donation to the Bermuda Diabetes Association.

"The Argus Group is delighted to collaborate with Giorgio in raising money for diabetes charities," said Gerald Simons, president and CEO of the company.

"Over ten per cent of adults in Bermuda have diabetes. We hope that our fund-raising campaign will support diabetes research internationally as well as promote awareness about the signs, symptoms and the treatment of diabetes here in Bermuda.

"Although Type 1 Diabetes is unavoidable, we know that exercise can help with diabetes control, and that it is key in helping prevent Type 2 Diabetes from developing. A recent research study carried out in Finland showed that the risk of diabetes for people in high-risk groups was reduced by 58 per cent through a change of lifestyle, including exercise.

"Giorgio Zanol is an excellent example to us all."

Diabetes is a chronic condition that impairs the body's ability to use food properly. With Type 1 Diabetes, the body produces none of the insulin hormone necessary for glucose metabolism. With Type 2 Diabetes, the body is unable to produce enough insulin or use it effectively.

A UK-based charity, the JDRF was founded in 1986 and is affiliated with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International. The world's leading advocate of Type 1 Diabetes, it has contributed to every major diabetes research breakthrough in the last 30 years.

"I had a choice of charities to support but I chose the JDRF because of the children," Mr. Zanol said. "I know how devastating diabetes can be. I have listened to Lindo's customers whose children and grandchildren have Type 1 Diabetes and recognise the struggle these families go through. I know the money will be used by the JDRF to fund the most promising and ground-breaking research into a cure for Type 1 Diabetes.

"People diagnosed with this illness face a lifetime of treatment and tests and the constant risk of complications. I know that lots of financial support can make a real difference to the search for a cure which is why I chose the JDRF.

"Argus, I think, came through very, very well. I didn't approach them. They approached me. The Bermuda Diabetic Association is doing a great job and I am excited that we can now give something to both charities."

A familiar figure on the roads, Mr. Zanol first began running in 1978. He has since competed in marathons around the world but until this year, participating in the London Marathon had never been possible. The lead-in to the event involves diligent training sessions ? practice runs totalling more than 40 miles a week; with at least one run of 20 miles or more.

"It's not that I like running but I do like the way I feel after I finish," the 63 year old said. "You don't feel as tired. You feel fit. You have a better outlook on life.

"But I am excited. Not only because I will be running for the JDRF, but also because the London Marathon this year is very competitive ? I think seven of the fastest men in the world are going to be there; Paula Radcliffe will be there.

"I've always wanted to run the London Marathon but I never had the chance. They tell me it's very flat and it should be cool, so I don't think it will be too challenging ? just a nice marathon to run. I've run the Boston Marathon 11 times. I've run New York. I've run Pittsburgh.

"I've run the Italian Marathon three times ? I think the most challenging is Bermuda. With the hills, it is not easy. And although it might be cool at 8 o'clock in the morning, by the time you (hit the second lap) it's hot."

His personal best in a marathon, Mr. Zanol said, was two hours, 45 minutes and 56 seconds. Asked if he was hoping to beat that, he laughed: "Maybe with a push bike. No, I'll be happy if I do 3:45 ? one hour slower, but it's 20 years later too.

"The marathon is actually two races. The first 20 miles is the easy one. The last six miles, that's the difficult part. It's a mental race. You have to be tough because that's when your brain starts telling you to slow down and walk. But it is such an accomplishment to finish. To know that you ran 26 miles on your own. It feels good."

4 Those interested in donating to Mr. Zanol's run for diabetes may make their contributions at the Lindo's grocery stores in Devonshire and Warwick, or at the Argus offices on Wesley Street in Hamilton.