In the USA, Dudley Glover, a sixty-year old retired writer with insulin-dependent diabetes, is trekking across the Northern part of New York state to draw attention to the growing epidemic of diabetes. Glover became a long-distance trekker in response to being diagnosed with coronary heart disease, that resulted in bypass surgery. He understands the importance of testing his blood glucose regularly, injecting insulin carefully, and watching his diet closely.

Dudley is following the 365-mile (587km) trail of the Erie Canal to promote the health benefits of walking, particularly for people with diabetes. He began his journey on 1 October and plans to complete the trip by 14 November - World Diabetes Day. His goal is to reach New York for the events organized by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) to celebrate the first United Nations World Diabetes Day. He will be publishing accounts of his journey on an online journal that will soon be available on his website - trekkingalong.org.

Posted on Fri, 04/25/2008 - 17:00