Diabetes is a disease that easily can be overlooked. In the United States alone, though, there are over 26 million people living with it and another 79 million who are at risk of being diagnosed.
A group of individuals in Ludowici, led by Walt Pelton, are planning to spread awareness about diabetes by holding the first-ever Long County Diabetes Awareness Day this Saturday. The event will feature a multitude of activities, including a CrossFit competition, a motorcycle dice run, pony rides, a bounce house, a diabetes-friendly chili cook-off and a 5K run.     
Pelton said that even though most of the activities take place Saturday, the fun actually begins at 6 Friday night at Long Middle School with a dance for children and adults. The following day, the main events will be set up at the Long County Recreation Complex. Pelton said all proceeds from the festivities will go to the Lowcountry Diabetes team to help the American Diabetes Association.
Since the event first was announced, many local residents have stepped up to help. Long County resident Cliff DeLoach recently raised $500 for the team, and he is encouraging everyone to come out Friday and Saturday for the fun.
“The Long County citizens always come out and support a good cause, and this is definitely for a good cause. I believe there will be a big turnout on Saturday,” DeLoach said.
For more information on becoming a vendor or a sponsor for the event, call Pelton at 656-6289 or go to www.diabetes.org/stepoutsavannah.