NEW YORK, Sept. 24 The American Diabetes Association and Spokesperson, Grammy winning Gloria Gaynor, invite New Yorkers to Step Out to Fight Diabetes on Sunday, October 26, 2008. This walk will raise awareness and money for diabetes research and education. There are nearly 24 million Americans with diabetes and in the last 10 Years the numbers of New Yorkers who've been diagnosed with diabetes have increased by 250% and the death rate has nearly doubled. Gaynor, who will perform, is a long time advocate of the disease. "Diabetes is an awful, life-threatening disease that affects us all, I too have been personally affected by this disease," said Gloria. "It's such a rewarding experience to help fight for this important cause. I urge everyone to help by either walking or sponsoring a walker. Together, we can find a way to stop this tragedy."
Funds raised will support of the Association's mission: to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Diabetes is the fifth deadliest disease in America, killing more people than AIDS or breast cancer. Nearly 6.2 million people are unaware that they have the disease and the numbers are rising by the minute. Because of these reasons, New Yorkers must take a forceful stance against this non-discriminating disease and unify as a community to end the rise and current conditions of Diabetes.
The walk will be on Sunday, October 26th at the South Street Southport in New York City. Participants will join last years 2,500 walkers, in effort to increase 2007's donations of $470,000.00. Step-Out NYC not only educates, promotes exercise and activity but also entertains individuals, families and teams all day long, with giveaways, performances, on-site festivities, and a youth activity area. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Seaport and the walk begins at 10 a.m. Gloria Gaynor's performance featuring her worldwide hit "I will survive" will kick off the opening ceremonies at 9:00am.
To register, volunteer or find out more information, please visit diabetes.org/stepout or contact Antonio Coppola of the American Diabetes Association at (212) 725-4925 or [email protected]
Media Contact: Gwen Wunderlich-Smith, [email protected], or Melissa Charles, [email protected], +1-212-586-2240, both of FYI PR, for American Diabetes Association
SOURCE American Diabetes Association
