There are many reasons why we are motivated to do something, and sometimes we are motivated most by our loved ones. Our guest blogger, Marla Johnson, has several reasons to walk for the American Diabetes Association, including the three pictured here.
On October 18, at the IUPUI Track and Soccer Stadium, I will take time out of my busy schedule to join the American Diabetes Association for their annual Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes. As we gather on that autumn Sunday, I will remember my father who had type two diabetes. My thoughts will then go to my mother, who also has type two diabetes, who just had surgery to try to combat the nerve damage in her hand and wrists brought on by the condition. As we wind through the streets of downtown Indianapolis, I will think of my brother whose uncontrolled type two diabetes is taking his ability to walk away through vascular and nerve damage.
I myself do not have the disease. But on that chilly Sunday morning when I walk, I will remember when I had gestational diabetes while I was pregnant. I will remember the fear I felt that if I put the wrong thing in my mouth that I could cause harm to my unborn child. I will remember the concern the medical team had that my son would be born with a litany of health issues. I will celebrate that me and my son turned out just fine, but I will think of all the mothers right now who are facing those same fears. I will remember to say a prayer for them.
As I enjoy the view of the canal. I will remember my 20-year-old niece who has had “adult onset” diabetes since she was a teen. I will think about the obesity crisis that is affecting our youth. My mind will focus on the fact that a disease once relegated to adults now ravishes that lives of our children. I will remember the children who, instead of playing with dolls and cars, are worried about glucose monitoring and insulin levels.
While I walk, I will remember the mission of the American Diabetes Association. I hope by walking an unneeded case of diabetes is prevented. I hope the information distributed helps to add quality and improve the lives of the diabetics everywhere. Most of all I hope one day that through funds raised, researchers will find an answer and cure the disease once and for all.
Why don’t you join me in the fight? It does not take much. You can start by joining me for Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes. You can get more information and register by visiting the web site or by calling 1-888-DIABETES. There is no cost to you to walk. You can just come down and show your support. If you are not able to walk, your financial donations help underwrite the work that the American Diabetes Association does 365 days of a year. Please help me make this a Walk to Remember.
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