ADA Challenges Marylanders to 'Step Out to Fight Diabetes...( American Diabetes Association launche...),Health

American Diabetes Association launches new name, image for signature event,

underscores need to take greater action against deadly disease

BALTIMORE, Sept. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On October 6, more than 2,000 Maryland residents will gather donations and prepare for the American Diabetes Association's first annual "Step Out to Fight Diabetes." Formerly known as America's Walk for Diabetes, the newly named and newly branded event is nationally recognized as the association's signature fundraising walk. The walk is a one-day event that occurs each fall in more than 200 cities nationwide.

The new name and image were born as a result of the need to take greater action in the fight against diabetes, a disease that kills more people annually than AIDS and breast cancer combined. More than 20 million Americans have diabetes, nearly 300,000 of whom live in Maryland. Through Step Out to Fight Diabetes and other initiatives, the ADA is taking steps to attack the epidemic aggressively. Under its new name, Step Out to Fight Diabetes offers a wider appeal and it is enabling the ADA to reach new audiences. It is also enhancing the association's core education, advocacy and research efforts.

Activities during Step Out to Fight Diabetes in Maryland will include: a 3.1 mile walk, autographs by former Baltimore Oriole Scott McGregor, appearances by the Orioles' and Ravens' mascots, music by TalentKey DJ Johnny, face painting, the Black Cherry Puppet Theater, The Home Depot's "Project Kids," as well as the Health and Fitness Fesitval presented by Erickson Retirement Communities.

WHEN: Saturday, October 6, 2007, 8am-1pm

8am -- Check-in, refreshments, entertainment, and Health and

Fitness Festival.

Welcome by WJZ 13 anchor/reporter, Mary Bubala

9am -- Walk begins

10:30am -- Refreshments, goody bags, fun and healthy activities

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