Walk supports those with diabetes
DIABETES is a condition that can be managed, controlled and eventually outsmarted – this was the message at East London’s Diabetes South Africa walk.
Diabetes South Africa is a non-profit organisation that supports and advocates for all those with diabetes in South Africa.
The annual event took place on Saturday on East London’s Esplanade in commemoration of World Diabetes Day, which is celebrated on November 14.
Led by an entourage of bikers, young, old and even pets participated in the fun walk from the Orient Beach car park to the lifesavers hut and back.
Diabetes SA East London coordinator Anne Baynes said the event was to raise awareness and show support for those living with the disease.
Baynes said the event, started in 2007, had grown with each passing year.
“This is not just a fun walk for diabetic people but for everyone affected by diabetes,” she said.
Vrooda Makhan, who was diagnosed with diabetes in 2005, said the Diabetics SA monthly meetings and the fun walk was great support.
“It is so motivational to see people supporting people living with this condition. This motivates me to continue living my life as normal and not allow this condition to control me,” she said.
Leslie Johnston, who has been living with diabetes for 12 years, said the condition was controllable.
“I never allowed diabetes to control my life, I control and manage it,” he said.
The 81-year-old, who serves as a board member in the organisation, encouraged people to get tested for diabetes.
“The sooner you find out, the better it is to manage it.”
The chairman of the organisation Dr Dinesh Vallabh said diabetes can be outsmarted.
“If you stick to a good diet, be active and take your prescribed medication you can definitely outsmart diabetes,” Vallabh said.
The fun walk ended with a lucky draw where prizes donated by various sponsors were given away. Every participant walked away with a goodie bag containing information and goods promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The organisation holds a meeting every first Saturday of the month at the Regent Hotel where different medical specialists are invited to give free consultations and talks.
● For more information, contact Baynes on 060-994-6280 or Usha Jimmy on 083-556-0590. —