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The Diabetes Connection began as a project of the healthy communities initiative “PRO Hampton County”. South Carolina ranks among the top five states in the nation for diabetes morbidity and mortality. This epidemiological data is crucial when targeting public health issues. Equally important is the community motivation or desire for change. In 1997 Hampton County residents were surveyed and asked to share their major concerns. Diabetes was identified as a major health issue and the PRO Hampton County Health and Lifestyles Task Force implemented a project called the “Diabetes Connection”. This ongoing diabetes project is a collaboration of community members, local and regional health professionals, and people with diabetes who share their experiences and wisdom about living with the disease. The aim of the Diabetes Connection is to reduce morbidity and mortality due to diabetes in a state that ranks second in the prevalence of diabetes.