Hundreds of people from both Randfontein and further afield took part in the Run Against Diabetes Awareness Campaign held at the Greenhills Stadium on Sunday, 7 April.
Pitso Molemane of Kaya FM, and a coordinator of the event, who was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of nine, said the event achieved its purpose as it brought people together to run pre-diabetes risk tests.
“So many people were happy after taking the tests, because they now know if they are at risk of developing diabetes or not,” Pitso said.
He added that knowing their diabetes status will encourage those who were tested to start eating healthily, and exercise.
“The diabetes tests were conducted by Harmony Gold Mine, the Randfontein Lenmed Private Hospital and Accu-Check,” Pitso said.
He thanked all the sponsors and stakeholders who invested their resources in the campaign.
“Being aware of your blood sugar level is very important as it will guide you to make lifestyle changes and self-monitor, so that you can live longer. In addition, people will be able to prevent the disease from developing.”
Pitso said this was the first campaign held to educate people about diabetes, and coordinators are already making arrangements for another next year.
The sponsors included the Government Employee Medical Scheme, Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Rand West City Local Municipality, Engen Middelvlei Mohlakeng R28, Amadeka Events and the Israel Morake Foundation.
