Lap The Map.

Diabetes is a global epidemic. On World Diabetes Day, Sunday 14 November 2021, Lions Clubs around Canberra joined other clubs across Australia to “Lap the Map” for diabetes prevention.

Together the aim was to walk with us a combined distance greater than the circumference of Australia. Lions Clubs across the country hosted family friendly walks and community promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness of the diabetes epidemic.

More than 460 million adults across the world suffer with diabetes and the number is rapidly growing. In Australia 1.3 million adults live with diabetes. We’re working with local diabetes organisations to create awareness of the effects of diabetes.

Canberra Valley Lions Club President Andy Galley said, “Our organisation is dedicated to empowering Lions members around the world to fight diabetes by serving their communities.”.

In Canberra it was a self-paced all abilities walk staged in Belconnen, Gungahlin, and Lake Tuggeranong. There are 9 Lions Clubs in the ACT bringing the community together to promote and participate in this outstanding health project. Walkers register with a Gold Coin donation. Funds raised went toward diabetes awareness, prevention, and research and this is supported through the Lions Diabetes Foundation and Diabetes New South Wales and ACT.

“It was not about how far you walked or ran, it’s about community involvement, getting active and moving together”, Mr Galley said.