Forward Sam Reid and the GIANTS are teaming up with Diabetes NSW & ACT as part of Move4Diabetes month.
Sam is walking, kicking and jumping proof that people living with diabetes don’t just survive, they can thrive and reach the highest levels in sport and competition.
“This campaign is about raising much needed-funds but it’s also about increasing awareness and getting people more active,” He said.
“Some people think that when you have diabetes, you shouldn’t exercise or that exercise has nothing to do with preventing diabetes. Living with diabetes isn’t a limitation.
“Sure, it has its challenges but I’ve never let it hold me back. That’s why DNSW & ACT are teaming up with the GIANTS for Move4Diabetes for the month of November.”
Sturt Eastwood, CEO of Diabetes NSW & ACT, lives with diabetes himself.
“I know first-hand the importance of exercise in managing diabetes. However, physical activity is something we should all focus on, not just those living with this condition,” he said.
“These days our lives and jobs are mostly managed with the tap of a finger.
“This is great, but it has consequences. 280 Aussies are diagnosed with diabetes each day.
“Getting out and moving is key to preventing and managing this health crisis, and it’s a lot of fun. That’s what Move4Diabetes is all about!”
Ashley Baveas is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with Diabetes NSW & ACT and said that being active is important.
“Movement in our everyday life has the ability to prevent and manage many of the lifestyle-related chronic diseases in today’s society, especially diabetes.” She said.
“By moving more, we are able to manage our blood glucose levels so they stay in the healthy range. Simply put, our bodies work better when we sit less and move more”.
Move4Diabetes is about asking people to continue doing what they love or find a new way of moving, set themselves a target and ask friends and family to sponsor them for reaching their target.
People are dancing at their local studio, swimming around Wedding Cake Island as part of the Coogee Island Challenge, taking 400,000 steps during November, cycling to and from work.
The great thing about Move4Diabetes is that you can do whatever gets you moving. While some people do love wading through pools of mud or running a half marathon, these events aren’t for everyone.
You don’t have to train before you start moving and you can start by doing as little or as much as you like.
The funds you raise will go towards supporting the more 420,000 people across the state and territory currently living with diabetes.
“One in four Australian adults lives with diabetes or pre-diabetes. If it’s not you, then it’s probably someone you know or love,” said Mr Eastwood.
“Our services are a lifeline for people facing the challenges of diabetes, from infants to seniors. In the past year, we’ve run more than 800 health education events and taken more than 90,000 support calls.
“That’s the scale we’re talking about here. I want to thank our ‘movers’ who are fundraising for us. Because of them, in 2017 we can do even more to help people with diabetes.”
To get moving or to donate, visit www.move4diabetes.com or email fundraising@diabetesnsw.com.au
