Event collects donations, raises awareness for diabetes

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Dozens of people turned out at Bienville Square on Saturday morning to raise money, and awareness, about a health problem that many people may not even know they have.

Organizers said more than 500 people signed up to raise money toward a goal of $100,000 in Mobile to help the American Diabetes Association help diabetics.

Carole Grant with the American Diabetes Association said, "The Association helps to set the standards of care for people living with diabetes, which is really important. It also funds research towards a cure, and it gives a voice to people who are denied their rights because of diabetes."

She said about 84,000 people in Mobile and the surrounding areas have diabetes, and there are estimates that 25 percent of people have diabetes and don't know it. But experts say diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, and blindness, and that's why its important to get treated.

Grant said, "Believe it or not, we do diagnose people with diabetes here. We don't officially diagnose them, but we send them to the doctor, and that's where they start their treatment."

Christy Williams was walking for her 9-year-old son, who has diabetes, and to help people understand the disease.

Williams said, "These kids can lead a normal life. My son, he races motorcross. He's my hero."

Grant said, "Its not something that only lasts for a week or a month. Its not like a cold.  It lasts a lifetime."

But, there are other things to remember, too.

Williams said, "You don't have to be put in a box. It doesn't bring an end to your life. You just have to take control of it."