Life Care Center of East Ridge joined with Partners & Peers for Diabetes Care, Inc., to provide the Big Blue Test to participants in the Community Walk to Stop Diabetes on Nov. 11.
The American Diabetes Association sponsored the walk, the first of its kind along the Tennessee River in Chattanooga. Participants walked and rode bikes to raise awareness of and funds for diabetes.
The Big Blue Test took the event a step further. Before walking, participants had their blood sugar checked and the results recorded. After the walk, they had their sugar checked again to compare the results. The test is designed to show the impact of exercise on blood sugar levels and diabetes, and for every test completed, Big Blue Test sponsors donate funds to fight diabetes through education and treatment in communities around the country.
“I think it’s a neat way to prove to people that exercise does help with controlling diabetes,” said Christian McDonald, activity director. “Life Care Center of East Ridge is dedicated to improving people’s lives. We participate in several walks and the dragon boat races for the children’s hospital. On a personal level, my nephew and I both have Type 1 diabetes, and we are hoping for a cure.”