More than 250 walkers who came to Heritage State Park on a rainy Saturday June 11th morning for the 10th Annual "Walking the Distance" walk for the Diabetes Association, Inc. (DAI) of Fall River and New Bedford  Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan, the event's Title Sponsor, joined many local businesses, organizations and supporters by becoming sponsors and by forming teams of walkers. Event chairperson Fernando Garcia of Fall River Ford kicked off the walk by graciously thanking everyone for attending and for giving back to community. "The prevalence of diabetes in Fall River is at epic proportions. Many of you here today have been affected personally either with this disease or by a family member or friend who has diabetes. I am truly blessed to be not only the chairman for Walking the Distance for Diabetes, but to be part of an organization that understands the need for resources and education regarding diabetes within our community", stated Garcia. Proceeds will support the Jack Rua Camp for Children with Diabetes, a friendly place where kids with diabetes, ages 5-14, their siblings and friends benefit from hands-on learning experiences in diabetes management and support within a fun and welcoming environment. Camp Jack (formerly Camp Kyle) runs for six weeks during the months of July and August and is held at the beautiful Camp Buxton in Rehoboth, MA. For more information about Camp Jack or any of the other programs of People, Incorporated, please contact Pamela O'Neill at 508-679-5233 x11. (Photos courtesy of Pamela O'Neill )
 

(Top row, left) Jeff Arruda, Residential Services Division and his daughter, Sierra, get ready for the walk. (Top row, center) Accounting Manager Megan Scheffer and Executive Assistant, Linda Moniz, sign people in for the walk. (Top row, right) Fernando Garcia welcomes the walkers as Mayor Flanagan listens. (Second row) Walkers head out for the two-mile round trip to Independence Park along the City's boardwalk. (Third row, center) Jason Rua and Team RDA pose for a photo. (Bottom row, center) New Graduates from the Nursing Program at Diman Regional pose for a photo. (Bottom row, right) Jason Medeiros and Kristen Gunderson lead children in a game following the walk.