Chronic diseases drain patient's wallets while lawmakers in DC haggle over health care reform. Most Americans hope the measure will save us money and provide us with affordable medical coverage.

17,000 people in Erie County are living with diabetes.

In 2007, drugmaker Glaxosmithkline reporter it cost patients $10,000 a year to treat diabetes. So, any free help to manage the chronic disease is welcome.

The Erie County Diabetes Association is able to provide free support groups with help from LECOM, Community Health Net, and community donors.

The classes are designed to help anyone, but especially those who are uninsured.

To learn how to help keep the classes going, or to learn how to sign up for a class, call (814) 454-0715.