‘Beat Diabetes’ march draws a huge turnout

Participants walking past the lake at the Aspire Park during the walkathon organised by Landmark Group in association with Qatar Diabetes Association yesterday. Right: Balloons are released to mark the beginning of the march. PICTURES: Jayan Orma

By Ramesh Mathew/Staff Reporter

Thousands of enthusiastic residents walked through the Aspire Park yesterday afternoon as they took part in the “Beat Diabetes” march.

The event was organised by a regional business group in association with entities including Qatar Foundation, Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA) and Aspire Zone.

Much before the walk began the surroundings of the scenic Aspire Park had turned into an ocean of blue with the participants wearing sky blue T-shirts and matching caps.

The march was held as part of events marking World Diabetes Day, which was observed on November 14.

The majority of participants were students of local and expatriate schools.

People of different nationalities converged at the park and there was a scramble in front of the counters where participants had to register. Similar crowds were also seen at counters where T-shirts and caps were distributed and where face painting was done.

There was also a counter to check blood sugar. Pictures drawn by children highlighting the importance of the event were another attraction. 

Before the march, CEO of Landmark Group Santosh Pai and QDA president Dr Abdulla al-Hamaq addressed the participants and highlighted the necessity of spreading awareness about diabetes. Landmark Group was the main organiser.

Dr al-Hamaq cited the initiatives Qatar has taken to fight diabetes.

“Living with diabetes is a daily struggle but it can be managed by following a disciplined lifestyle. The condition can lead to serious consequences if not detected and controlled at an early stage. Hence it is really inspiring to see the dedication of the Landmark team and the support they receive from the Qatar residents to spread the message about diabetes,” he said.        

Pai said: “The overwhelming turnout that the walkathon draws year after year is truly heartwarming. We are thankful to the people who support us in our campaign. Through the annual walkathons, the blood glucose tests and other activities that we hold round the year, residents are advised to lead an active life and how to remain fit.”

The organisers put the number of participants at more than 6,500, saying the turnout was much larger than in previous years.  

The Beat Diabetes campaign has been conducted since its debut in the UAE in 2009. The initiative has been extended to all the GCC states and also to India.

Hussain al-Qahtani, head of public relations and marketing at Aspire Zone, said he was “very impressed by the size of participation and commitment shown by the participants”.