Wilfork's father died after a lengthy battle with the disease, and the Super Bowl champion has devoted his foundation toward curing diabetes.
"Seeing my father going through what he had to go through, I had to give him shots at times, he was so weak," Wilfork said. "I had to bathe him, had to take him to the restroom. There was a lot going on that my brother and I had to deal with. That's why this is really close and dear to my heart."
The Vince Wilfork Foundation and Joslin Diabetes Center's High Hopes Funds are teaming up during the 2011 season to raise money. Fans can pledge $7.50 or $75 for every one of Wilfork's tackles in the 2011 season. Wilfork is also donating, along with his wife, brother and some friends.
Wilfork has used numerous methods to raise money for his foundation, including his annual draft-day event. He said the cause is growing.
"Through the years, we've raised a lot of good money," Wilfork said. "Last year, I think we raised over $100,000, so it's growing. One thing I want to do is to get my fans and my team involved with this. Everybody knows playing football is not just one individual, so I think that's where the fans and friends can play a huge part in this. We need a team effort just like I need a team effort on Sundays."
For more information on how to donate, visit http://events.joslin.org/wilfork/.
