Lace Up for Diabetes, virtual 10k do it your way
This September, Diabetes Canada is encouraging Canadians to “lace up” by walking, running, cycling, hiking, or choosing any preferred movement activity to help accomplish a goal of 10 km. Due to the current environment, and to follow public health safety guidelines, the event is virtual and can be completed at any time throughout September.
“Lace Up for Diabetes is a great opportunity to commit to a healthy fitness challenge either on your own or as part of a virtual team,” says Sarah Reid, Regional Director with Diabetes Canada. “Another benefit is that participants are not limited to one type of activity, and they can personalize their movement depending on their interest, even combining types of activities to help achieve the ultimate 10 km distance.”
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Diabetes Canada has had to adjust many of its planned fundraising initiatives that support Canadians living with all types of diabetes. “September is often considered a fresh start to the year and we’re hoping this Lace Up virtual event inspires people in communities from coast to coast to get involved to help us continue delivering education programs, advocate to governments, and fund critical diabetes research,” says Reid.
Lace Up for Diabetes already has the generous support of many Ambassadors who each have their own personal passion for getting involved. Dr. Gregory Steinberg has been gearing up with his family with a goal of completing an incredible 8000 kms – the equivalent of cycling across Canada. “Funding from Diabetes Canada over the past 10 years has allowed my research team to make fundamental discoveries that have laid the foundation for several new medicines that are currently in clinical testing and may someday soon benefit Canadians living with diabetes,” says Dr. Steinberg. “To help celebrate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin in 2021, I want to raise money to fund the next generation of diabetes researchers working in Canada.”
Registration for Lace Up for Diabetes is now open. There will be a special virtual celebration for all participants on September 27th featuring inspiring speakers and stories.