Health and Lifestyle - that's what it's all about...

Gearing up for the upcoming Diabetes Walk on Sunday, November 13^th, Diabetes SA Durban Branch manager, Jenny Russell (right) together with Adele Madsen (left) and some of her young beach hockey players  getting into the swing of things in an effort to live an active & healthy lifestyle

Now in its fifth year, the Global Diabetes Walk and Wellness Expo – Durban, which has become a successful annual event, is taking place on Sunday, November 13^th from the Lower Marine Parade Amphitheatre at the Bay of Plenty, starting at 8am.

In addition to the walk, there will be a festive Wellness Expo which will see many exhibitors offering information and sample products relating to diabetes, free glucose and blood pressure tests for the public, amongst other exciting features.

An added bonus will be an array of entertainment on offer, from participating in the free Zumba Class to Rhythmic Dance School dancers entertaining the expected 3000 strong entrants from the walk. 

Children under 6 years old are free to enter and they too can enjoy the entertainment from jumping castles, Dilly the Clown as well as a beach hockey demonstration.

“Beach Hockey is played in over 30 countries and this is the first launch for South Africa,” said Adele Madsen. “We are excited to support the Global Diabetes Walk, as with playing hockey we strive for a healthy, fit body and value what this walk does to draw the public’s attention to preventative and manageable measures that must be considered with an illness such as Diabetes,” she added.   

Also, entertaining the crowds at the walk will be dancers from the Rhythmic Arts Academy owned by Minette Landman who said, “We have a passionate group of students and a dynamic team proud to be a part of the Diabetics Walk for the second year in a row. We as Dancers and performers often take our bodies for granted, and love to be a part of projects that promote healthy living to remind us to be mindful and respectful towards our bodies. It is also important to us to promote a healthy lifestyle and show our support in events that create awareness and education to younger generations. We are all very excited and can’t wait to be a part of this event”.

Lastly, emphasised by the branch manager at Diabetes SA – Durban, Jenny Russell, “South Africa needs to encourage more events like ours as not many people are aware that Diabetes is a serious medical condition. Diabetes is caused by too much glucose in the bloodstream and has been dubbed the ‘silent killer’ for years and we seriously need to do something about it collectively!” “Don’t risk it - I encourage everyone to improve their health and take control of their lifestyle - from monitoring what they eat, to exercising,” she added.

It is encouraged to pre-enter for the Diabetes Walk by either registering at the Diabetes SA Durban Office, situated at 204 Wheeler House, 112 Mathews Meyiwa Rd (Stamford Hill Road), Durban or head on down to arena 3 at the uShaka Marine World Village Walk on Saturday, November 5^th or on Sunday, November 6^th between 12 noon & 3pm.

The 5km walk is open to all and costs just R60 per person. Participants are even encouraged to bring their pet pooch along (on a leash). All proceeds go towards supporting Diabetes SA and its work in all communities. Even if you are not participating, all donations are welcome!

For further information, please contact Diabetes SA on 084 717 7443, or email them on durban@diabetessa.org.za or call Nerve Events 031 201 2169 during office hours.





image and words - Steven Brown