Giant Eagle praised by the American Diabetes Association

PITTSBURGH — Giant Eagle has received the American Diabetes Association's prestigious Chairman's Citation Award, which recognizes the accomplishments of individuals, corporations, institutions and organizations who have demonstrated dedication and commitment and have had a positive impact in advancing the mission of the ADA.

“Diabetes is, unfortunately, an increasingly common disease in the United States and in the communities that we serve," stated Giant Eagle SVP pharmacy operations Brett Merrell. "We have long admired the wonderful efforts of the American Diabetes Association, and are proud to continue our collaborative efforts to both educate and treat Giant Eagle customers about these diseases."

In April 2010, Giant Eagle introduced a program offering the five most commonly prescribed diabetes medications for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes at no cost to medical prescription holders. To date, Giant Eagle has provided approximately $4 million in customer savings on diabetes medications.

In addition to free diabetes medications, Giant Eagle offers a multifaceted program consisting of free diabetes screenings in all 211 pharmacy store locations; the availability of pharmacy diabetes care specialists trained from an American Pharmacists Association program and endorsed by the American Academy of Diabetes Educators at every pharmacy; and nutrition classes that will provide an overview of the major components for a healthy lifestyle, including food choices and exercise.

Since 2005, Giant Eagle has provided more than $750,000 in support of the ADA and thousands of dollars of in-kind support, such as food for events, nonperishable products for diabetes camps and leadership on local boards and committees.

Bret Michaels, lead vocalist of Poison and diabetes advocate, received the first award in 2010 for his efforts in raising critical awareness about the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and management.