Meet Charlotte’s diabetic champions + 3 events to check out for Diabetes Awareness Month
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There are approximately 170,000 people living in the Charlotte metro area with diabetes.
As a type 1 diabetic, I’m excited to live in a city with incredible resources, experts and events that are bringing hope and awareness to the condition. I’ve never let diabetes stop or slow me down and embrace the technology attached to me (insulin pump and glucose sensor) which helps me run half-marathons and hike Crowder’s Mountain.
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“Diabetic tech love – did I really match my wedding dress to my glucose sensor?”
Locally we have amazing diabetic champions – including Ryan Reed, one of two type 1 diabetic drivers in a national racing series and founder of Ryan’s Mission; Ross Baker, a type 1 diabetic running a marathon in every state; and former Charlotte TV and radio personality Stacey Simms, who launched Diabetes Connection, a podcast featuring diabetes advocates and personal stories from people with diabetes.
The calendar is filling up with events for Diabetes Awareness Month. Here are a few to check out.
(1) Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes
When: Saturday, November 7, Check-in: 9 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m.
Where: Symphony Park
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Why: The American Diabetes Associations signature fundraising walk with celebrity MC Ramona Holloway from 1079 The Link is pet and family friendly. It offers a 1- and 3-mile option, kids zone, health expo, pre-walk warmup with a personal trainer, mascots and prizes. The walk is free but donations are encouraged. Register here.
(2) JDRF Hope Gala
When: Saturday, November 14, 6 p.m.
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Where: Westin Charlotte
Why: Voted “Best Party” in 2014 by Society Magazine, this elegant black tie event will feature exciting silent and live auctions filled with unique items and experiences to bid on, an elegant dinner, entertainment and more. For more information visit hopegalacharlotte.com.
(3) Disco for Diabetes
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When: Saturday, November 14, 8 p.m.
Where: Roxbury Night Club
Why: A fun night of attendees dressing in disco attire and dancing to 70’s and 80’s music while raising funds for the Charlotte Chapter of the American Diabetes Association. Buy tickets here.
