American Diabetes Association (ADA) invites one and all to Step Out to Fight Diabetes in East Meadow, NY

EAST MEADOW, NY (September 26, 2007) – The American Diabetes Association (ADA) invites one and all to Step Out to Fight Diabetes by participating in a 3.2 mile walk on Sunday, October 28, 2007, in East Meadow, NY. Check-in begins at 9 a.m. at Eisenhower Park, and the walk begins at 10:30 a.m.

Formerly known as America’s Walk for Diabetes, Step Out to Fight Diabetes is the fund-raising walk of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Participants will enjoy on-site festivities, a youth activity area, entertainment and refreshments. All funds raised will be used in support of the Association’s mission: to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

“Diabetes is a devastating disease that touches us all,” said Toni Hansen, Executive Director of the ADA, Greater New York Office. “Step Out to Fight Diabetes is such a wonderful event for friends and co-workers to come together and help raise money for a good cause. The camaraderie and spirit that is enjoyed by participating in this event is priceless.”

There are nearly 21 million Americans who have diabetes, including an estimated 14.6 million who have been diagnosed and approximately 6.2 million people who are as yet unaware that they have the disease.  Diabetes is the fifth deadliest disease in America, killing more people than AIDS or breast cancer. More than 213,000 Americans each year will die from its complications.

Step Out to Fight Diabetes is an event for the whole family, or for anyone who enjoys the feeling of being part of a community. Grammy award-winning R&B legend, Patti LaBelle, is this year’s Honorary Spokesperson. The event is made possible by presenting sponsor M &T Bank, and premier sponsors St. Francis Hospital and North Fork Bank. Be a part of the cure—Step Out to Fight Diabetes—and start raising money today! To register, volunteer or learn more, please visit www.diabetes.org/stepout or contact Toni Ann Riedel-Lehmann at  (212) 725-4925 (ext. 3567) or triedel-lehmann@diabetes.org.

The American Diabetes Association is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information, and advocacy.  Founded in 1940, the Association has offices in every region of the country providing services in more than 800 communities. 
 
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Rodger Gottlieb
(609) 484-0750