500 cyclists took Maryland’s Eastern Shore by storm on May 19 as the Chesapeake Bay Tour De Cure raised $200,000 for diabetes research and community education.
Diabetes is a national epidemic and one that affects Maryland and the Eastern Shore communities in even greater proportions. More than 13% of adults in the Upper and Mid-Shore area have diabetes, compared to the 8.3% national average.
The event marks the first time that a Tour de Cure, a national event organized by the American Diabetes Association, took place on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Riders rode on routes ranging from 10 miles to 100 miles so people off all ages had an opportunity to participate. Seven-year-old Allison Holdgreve, newly diagnosed with Type-One Diabetes and the Youth Ambassador for the Chesapeake Bay Tour de Cure participated by riding on the 10 mile route with her family.
The funds raised go to support critical research and community outreach. “We have been working hard to bring more awareness and support to the Eastern Shore because of the significant impact diabetes has on the community. There are many at risk for type 2 who do not have access to information in their communities and the funds we raise allow us to increase our outreach substantially, as well as direct money to research for a cure,” says Kathy Rogers of Cambridge, Maryland and Executive Director of the American Diabetes Association, Maryland Chapter.
The date for next year has been set for May 18th, 2013 at the Talbot County Community Center.
For more information about participating and sponsoring the event, contact Julie Frieman at [email protected] or 410-265-0075 x4677 and visit https://www.diabetes.org/chesapeaketourdecure
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