Hundreds ‘Step Out’ to stop diabetes

Hundreds of people stepped out in support of diabetes awareness Saturday in La Quinta.

The annual Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes is all a part of the American Diabetes Association’s effort to find a cure for the disease.

The walk is not only helping to raise awareness but also improving diabetics health.

Bill Carlson was the first diabetic to complete a Ironman triathlon in 1983.

“I’ve had diabetes for 40 years right now, and I’ve just been really dedicated to exercising, and monitoring my blood sugar, and eating the right foods. And because of that I don’t have any of the long-term complications,” Carlson said.

He’s living proof diabetes doesn’t have to consume your life.

“Diabetes doesn’t have to be all encompassing in your life but it is something you have to monitor on a regular basis and take with you. If you take special care of yourself you’ll last a long time,” Carlson said.

Carlson was one of hundreds of people who stepped out in support of a cure in La Quinta Saturday morning.

Members of our news team were there showing support for a disease that hits close to home for so many.

The mountains and golf course served as a backdrop for a morning dedicated to health and wellness.

“Really important that people make a stand about diabetes because it’s the leading cause of heart disease, stroke, blindness and amputations. And I think a lot of people don’t take a diagnosis of diabetes seriously,” said Larissa Roman the executive director for the American Diabetes Association.

The Step Out Walk aims to change how diabetics look at their diagnosis and remind everyone exercise is key.

“Walking, believe it or not, walking is a great way to control blood sugars. It’s all part of living a well life and it’s all things everyone should do,” Roman said.

Some living with the disease shared advice for others.

“Take it seriously, my eyes paid the price but the rest of me is fine and you go on,” said diabetic Susi Cagen.

Which is what those living with the disease say they plan to do, until a cure is found.