Ray Allen Shoots to Raise Money for Diabetes Research, Care With Help of Celtics Fans

Ray Allen has been a dominant 3-point shooter his entire career. Now, the Joslin Diabetes Center is hoping his points do more than just help the Celtics.

Allen and his mother, Flora Allen-Hopson, have partnered with the Joslin Diabetes Center to start “Ray’s $3 for 3’s” to raise money for diabetes research and care.

The new promotion encourages fans to donate $3 to the center’s “High Hopes” Fund for each 3- pointer Allen drains during the 2010-11 NBA season. Those who choose to participate can either support the program throughout the entire season or a specific month.

Season-long participants will be entered into monthly raffles and have the option to bid on exclusive opportunities, such as sitting courtside with Mrs. Allen-Hopson.

Ray Allen’s son, Walker, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, and the Joslin Diabetes Center helped him and his family through some very tough times.

“When Ray told me that Walker was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I was devastated, not only for little Walker, but also for my son and daughter-in-law,” Mrs. Allen-Hopson said. “No mother wants to see her son face something like this, but I knew Ray and Shannon [Allen’s wife] would overcome their worry to get the best care for Walker.  And they did, thanks to the Joslin Diabetes Center. As Ray’s number one fan, I’m excited to cheer him on this season as he supports the Joslin High Hopes Fund and the millions of families living with diabetes today.”

For more information on the program, please visit the Joslin Diabetes Center’s website.