Copyright euroweeklynews
As the Costa del Sol braces for brusque changes in temperatures, the La Cala de Mijas Lions’ Club Diabetic Support Group is calling on the community to step up and step out for good measure of health and hope. The 7th Annual Sponsored Charity Walkathon kicks off on Sunday, November 2, at 10am in Torreon Square, for a mix of a scenic seaside stroll with family fun to shine a light on diabetes awareness ahead of World Diabetes Day on November 14. This now well-established healthy social event, already in its seventh year, will be, we are told, a relaxed 5km route along the stunning La Cala Boardwalk and Paseo La Cala de Mijas. There will be a lively Zumba warmup to get pulses racing, followed by the gentle stroll (or brisk, if you prefer) that ends with a triumphant return to the square. From there, the festivities really begin. Live music from local drummers, musical performances, kids’ games, and over 30 market stalls brimming with crafts and original treats to help you someway towards filling those Christmas stockings. Best of all, qualified nurses will offer free glucose testing on-site, potentially catching undiagnosed cases early; last year alone, they screened 85 participants, including Mijas Mayor Ana Mata. Organised by the Lions’ Club Diabetic Support Group, the Walkathon isn’t just a walk in the park; it’s a lifeline and a lifesaver. This Walkathon looks like it will be their biggest ever event, bringing together families, locals, and the foreign community together for a morning of awareness and taking good care of ourselves, so “lace up and join us at Torreon Square,” says Diabetic Support Group founder, Anne Bowles. The Lions will also be out in force handing out their “Message in a Bottle” kits. This simple, yet genius little container is designed to save lives by bridging the gap between emergency medical staff and those of us with a medical history. Look out for the blue shirts of the Lions and ask them what it’s all about. It’s free! Funds raised from the event will go towards vital resources like free testing and support programmes, crucial in a world where over 463 million battle diabetes. Participation is easy and inclusive. The Walkathon is open to all ages and fitness levels. Grab sponsor forms at the Lions Charity Shop on Calle Torremolinos or Saturday markets outside municipal offices. Rally friends, family, or colleagues to pledge per kilometre walked; businesses, reserve a stall for the best visibility. Every step counts toward better health – walking alone can cut A1C levels by 0.64 per cent and boost insulin sensitivity, according to clinical studies. See you Sunday morning at the start line!
