FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA CONTACT: Lirys Cullinan

404-320-7100 ext.3034

LCullinan@diabetes.org

LOSERS RIDE TO FIGHT DIABETES

Biggest Loser Contestants Participate in American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure

As many know, Type 2 diabetes and weight go hand in hand, this reality became all too clear for Antoine Dove and Alexander White when they were told they were both were on the borderline of having Type 2
diabetes. Still young, Dove, 24 and White, 21, the thought of having diabetes
at such a young age alarmed the youthful couple. So, 152 pounds lighter,
diabetes is no longer an immediate threat to Dove or White who lost 91 pounds.

They continue their healthy lifestyle by supporting a cause which is close to them as they participate in the 2010 American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure.
This event is a bike ride, on Sunday, May 16^th in Tyrone, GA,
which raises funds to help with education, advocacy and diabetes research.

Dove and White’s close encounter with the disease combined with family members who are currently battling diabetes, makes this a very important issue for the two. “It
became very important to educate ourselves and others about diabetes, we know
it can be reversed because after our significant weight loss we are no longer
borderline,” explains White.

The popular TV show, The Biggest Loser helped the couple get on track with their weight loss. They faced well known trainer Jillian Michaels who they described as, “Tough, but she brings out the best in
people.”

However, the couple was eliminated from the show early and headed home to continue their own weight loss program. One of the key things the couple try to do every day in
order to maintain their healthy lifestyle is to prepare their meals and be
fully aware of what they are putting into their bodies. They work out six days
a week. They do reward themselves,
allowing for one “cheat” item a week. “A healthy lifestyle is about balance,
not total deprivation,” states Alexandra.

Dove and White really motivate one another; they remind each other how not too long ago they both weighed more than 300 pounds. When bored of the gym they explore new activities. For example outdoor biking
is a new activity that the couple has just recently gotten into as they prepare
for Tour de Cure.

They are participating in this event for the first time in support of all their family members who have diabetes. “We are extremely happy to work with the American Diabetes Association to help others
get healthy and change forever,” says the couple.

Tour de Cure is a ride which contains fully catered rest stops and of course plenty of support. Upon crossing the finish line riders will be greeted by volunteers, treated to lunch, a massage, a live band
and more.

Diabetes affects more than 24 million Americans, including more than 1 million people in our community. Join Tour de Cure today and help stop diabetes. For more information visit www.diabetes.org/tour or contact Lirys Cullinan at LCullinan@diabetes.org.

By: Ragan Helms

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