Five Reasons Why People Walk to End Diabetes

Nearly 30 million Americans are affected with diabetes and, if trends continue, one in five Americans are projected to have diabetes by 2050, according to the American Diabetes Association. However, thousands of people around the country are deciding to act and take change into their own hands by walking to stop diabetes. People walk for many reasons: for family or friends, as a challenge to themselves or in memory of a loved one, but the following five reasons unite most participants' motivation to Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes. Exercise - Regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and a central part of diabetes management. Because of this, the American Diabetes Association developed the Red Strider Program to encourage people who live with diabetes to get out and walk in a fun, safe and supportive environment. Red Striders showcase the courage it takes to live with diabetes and demonstrate how one can lead a full, active lifestyle with diabetes. Empowerment - The first steps toward managing diabetes and sharing lifestyle changes with friends and family take courage. In walking to stop diabetes, participants walk with heads high and are encouraged by fellow walkers every step of the way. "Two years ago I couldn't leave the house, go in public or be around people," says Jacinta Pericola, a participant in Step Out: Prescott, Arizona, living with type 2 diabetes. "Look what I did today. This has given me a purpose, given me a mission and I am so happy." Community - When people with diabetes participate in a walk, they join people from their town, county and state who are working to manage their diabetes every day. Red Striders join a community they might not have known previously existed. Friends and family can show their support by joining in and walking alongside their loved ones for a cause. Fundraise - The power of Red Striders to motivate and inspire others living with diabetes can be astonishing. The result of walks across the country has been a hugely successful, raising almost $24 million annually to support the Association's mission to prevent, cure and improve the lives of people affected by diabetes. Family Fun - Anyone can join a walk, and sometimes the youngest participants are the biggest leaders. Take Cooper, diagnosed with type 1 as a child, who has turned his local walk into a family affair. "Team Cooper was the number one family and friend team and Cooper was the top fundraiser for Chicago last year," says his mother, Valerie Christensen. Cooper proves that no matter what their age, everyone can make a difference. Each year thousands of individuals get out and make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others through the simple act of walking.