Southern Illinois Diabetes Awareness Walk set for Nov. 14 in Carbondale
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) – March of Faith Community Church is partnering with Deaconess Illinois and Shawnee Health to host the Southern Illinois Diabetes Awareness Walk on Saturday, Nov. 14, at University Mall in Carbondale.
The event aims to raise awareness about diabetes, honor those affected by the disease and connect community members with free health screenings and resources.
Registration begins at 9 a.m., followed by opening remarks at 10 a.m. The walk will begin at 10:30 a.m.
The event will feature the Virdie 1-Mile Legacy Loop, named in memory of Virdie Holsey, a March of Faith Community Church member and foster parent who died from complications of diabetes in 2010.
“My mother, Virdie, had a heart for people, especially children who needed a loving home,” said Pam Gillespie, Holsey’s daughter and an event organizer. “The Virdie 1-Mile Legacy Loop honors the care she gave to others. Every step is a chance to show care for families facing diabetes today while remembering those we have lost to its complications.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diagnosed diabetes is more prevalent among non-Hispanic Black adults than non-Hispanic white adults.
Deaconess Illinois will offer free A1C and blood glucose testing during the event. Representatives from Deaconess Illinois and Shawnee Health will also be available to answer questions and provide health information.
Walgreens will provide free flu shots, and additional community health resources will be available.
William Davis, regional president of Deaconess Illinois, said his personal experience with diabetes has strengthened his commitment to making health care resources more accessible.
“We are walking with people who live with diabetes, supporting their families and honoring those we have lost to its complications,” Davis said. “After my own diabetes diagnosis following COVID, I understand firsthand how this condition can change daily life for individuals and families.”
Community members diagnosed with diabetes can request a free event T-shirt when registering. Other participants may purchase shirts.
Attendees are also encouraged to bring canned goods to support local families.
The event’s theme is “Hope in every stride. Faith by our side.”
Registration forms and additional information are available at www.MOFCC.org. Those with questions can contact March of Faith Community Church at 618-457-8801 or marchoffaithcommunitychurch@gmail.com.
