For the first time, Diabetes Canada is hosting a Games Day event in Prince George on Saturday in promotion of healthy living and to help raise awareness about the disease.
"With diabetes, there is always a big focus on what you eat and sometimes getting the physical fitness aspect is a little more difficult," said Boyanne Young, Northern British Columbia branch coordinator with Diabetes Canada.
"We are so excited to host an event that brings together families, the great outdoors, laughter and healthy activities."
Today, more than 1.4 million British Columbians, or 29 per cent of the provincial population are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Diabetes puts people at higher risk of serious complications, including heart attack, stroke, vision loss, kidney disease and amputation.
According to Diabetes Canada, approximately 485,000 people have been diagnosed with diabetes in British Columbia in 2017, representing 9.5 per cent of the province's population.
During the past 10 years, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes in B.C. has increased by roughly 74 per cent.
Over the next decade, B.C. is projected to experience a 44 per cent increase in diabetes which will be the second largest increase in all provinces.
The Games Day event is set to feature many exciting and interactive activities that promote a healthy lifestyle for children and their families.
Activities will include sports such as soccer and bowling along with a variety of games, activities, delicious snacks, goodie bags and loads of prizes.
"It will be inspiring to watch young children as they chase a soccer ball or roll a bowling ball for the very first time," Young said.
"Living a healthy lifestyle is a family affair and we welcome everyone to attend this fun event. And don't forget to bring your lawn chairs."
"It will be a healthy day all round."
The event will take place on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the South Fort George Family Resource Centre, 1200 La Salle Ave.
Admission to this event is by donation.
Any amount will be greatly appreciated.
Diabetes Canada is a registered national charitable organization which continues to promote awareness about the disease.
Diabetes Canada is also partnered with Canadians to End Diabetes through: educational programs and support services, resources for health care professionals on best practices to care for people with diabetes, advocacy to governments, schools and workplaces and funding to further research and improvements to treatment and care.
For more information, visit: diabetes.ca.
