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What's Happening: Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes

Next Saturday, over 2,000 walkers will set out on a 5K walk with the intention of stopping diabetes in Philadelphia and around the world.

Next Saturday, over 2,000 walkers will 'step out' on a 5K (about 3.2 miles) walk with the common goal of stopping diabetes locally and globally.

"Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes", presented by Independence Blue Cross, is an event that has been taking place for over 20 years and has cumulatively raised over $175 million. This year's event takes place on October 5th on Ben Franklin Parkway. But more than a fitness event or race, the walk is a celebration of the fundraising efforts that participants have put forth for weeks or even months.

The aforementioned 2,000+ walkers include upwards of 300 teams of participants, each of whom have worked tirelessly to help reach the $700,000 fundraising goal of the event. The walk, and the entire day of events are a celebration of their efforts.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m., with the race warm-up at 9:30 a.m. once everyone has arrived. Eakins Oval marks both the start and finish line for the event.

While the walk is the highlight of the day's event, it's far from the only attraction. The Health & Wellness festival will offer valuable information on living with diabetes, while the Kid's Zone will feature games and magicians. Sponsors including Mid Atlantic Retina, Merck and Health Partners will provide free giveaways and information on stopping diabetes.

Once the race has concluded, the efforts of those who worked to raise money will be recognized in a variety of ways. Anyone who raised $150 or more will receive a commemorative race t-shirt. Walkers who raise $1,000 or more will be invited to a special hospitality "Champions Tent", where they will receive a medal and a bracelet from Kay Jewelers. Finally, the Red Strider Tent will welcome those participants who are living with diabetes for special recognition.

For more information on the 2013 "Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes" contact Liz Scoropanos at escoropanos@diabetes.org  or click here.

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