ABOUT DIABETES

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.

Type 1 Diabetes: Results from the body's failure to produce insulin, the hormone that "unlocks" the cells of the body, allowing glucose to enter and fuel them. It is estimated that 5-10% of Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes: Results from insulin resistance (a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin), combined with relative insulin deficiency. It is estimated that 90-95% of Americans are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes: Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem so harmless. Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes. Some diabetes symptoms include: frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, unusual weight loss, increased fatigue, irritability and blurry vision.

Diabetes Complications are Serious
* Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
* Leading cause of kidney failure
* Nervous system disease and nontraumatic lower-limb amputations


ABOUT THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION (ADA)

The ADA funds research to prevent, cure, and manage diabetes. It also delivers services to communities, provides information, and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes.


ABOUT THE OCTOBER 10, 2010 WALK-A-THON

Last year more than 100,000 walkers from around the country joined in the fight against diabetes because they knew that together we can stop diabetes. Each step they took and every dollar they raised helps the ADA provide community based education programs, protect the rights of people with diabetes and fund critical research for a cure. Now it's your chance to become a part of Step Out and start making your contribution to change the future of diabetes. Join this Meetup group and participate in the walk-a-thon this fall. We'll also have some warm-up walks and runs before the actual event.


FAQS


Q: Is there a minimum fundraising amount for the October 10 walk-a-thon?

A: Generally no but check back for 2010 rules.


Q: Are we going to have team t-shirt?

A: I have received a couple of requests. If there is enough interest, we'll do it.


Q: How do I raise money?

A: First, you should register at ADA's website. This makes you an official member of Team Fighting Diabetes. After you registered, you'll have access to an emailing tool in your account. Registration link will be posted here as soon as its determined.


Q: Why do I have to sign up at Meetup as well as the ADA website?

A: Signing up at Meetup will allow you to be informed of any upcoming training walks. It doesn't automatically include you in ADA's system. So it's more important to sign up at ADA's website.


Q: How often do you organize training activities?

A: As often as I can. I'm planning on one every two to three weeks. If there is interest for more activities, I'll try to recruit assistant organizers to fill the gap. Any volunteers?