Diabetes Nurse Practitioner Janet Schweda, T1PS Committee member Siobhan Johnston, Yarrawonga Health Diabetes Dietician Heather McKenna alongside Lions Nora Raynen, Judi Best, Gus Saunders, Gavan Foy, Event Coordinator Tim Roadley and Lions Joan and Ollie Tufvesson were happy with how the event transpired.
Photo by
Les_Garbutt
As the sun set over Lake Mulwala last Friday, walkers young and old donned their runners and set out on the ‘Lap the Island Diabetes Walk’.
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Organised by the Yarrawonga Lions’ Club, the walk aimed to raise awareness of the genetic and lifestyle factors that can trigger diabetes, and how the disease can be both managed and avoided.
Local diabetes educator Janet Schweda, T1PS Committee member Siobhan Johnston and dietitian Heather McKenna were on site to offer free advice for both diabetics and those locals wanting to live a healthier lifestyle.
Diabetes is one of Lions International’s global causes where Lions clubs of Australia are working to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the lives of those living with the disease.
An estimated 463 million adults across the world are living with diabetes, and its prevalence is increasing rapidly with one in five people above the age of 65 also having diabetes.
Several families got involved in the event with all members of the family, tall or small taking part and helping to raise awareness.
Photo by
Les_Garbutt
Yarrawonga Lions Club Secretary Deb Van Corler said in total 61 walkers registered for the event, with a total of 222.4 kms walked in just over an hour.
“All participants were treated to a range of healthy snacks at the end of the walk, such as diabetic friendly pancakes cooked by Lions,” Mrs Van Corler said.
“Entry was by donation, and just over $220 was raised.
“These proceeds will be given to support Medical Alert Dogs, trained by Australian Lions’ Training Dog Foundation, who are able to detect low or high sugar levels in diabetes’ patients and alert medical first responders as required.
“Our thanks go to Woolworths, who supplied all food and drink for the participants as well as Tim Roadley who organised the event.
Sixty-one registered walkers enjoyed the late afternoon sunshine on Friday.
Photo by
Les_Garbutt
“At the end of the evening, many participants and Lions’ helpers proceeded to the Yarrawonga Yacht Club for their Friday night pizza and drinks evening on the foreshore.
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