BY KAREN OTT MAYER

Once again, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation held its annual Walk to Cure Diabetes — this year's walk was on Oct. 7 at Shelby Farms.

The walk holds the dual purpose of raising funds, but more importantly, recognizing the countless volunteers who work with the organization.

"We're very fortunate because we had over 100 volunteers, including (some from) a sorority at the University of Memphis. By having people come out, have a hot dog and some fun, it's our small way of saying thanks," said Sherrie Rinehart, branch manager for the West Tennessee branch.

Rinehart, who has been with JDRF for three years, played a primary role in organizing the event.

This year, more than 2,000 people joined together to walk and raise money for juvenile diabetes. Together with its presenting corporate sponsors Medtronic and First Horizon bank, the walk raised approximately $350,000.

"Eighty-five percent of that money will go towards research," says Rinehart, who added that, as a staff member, it's a very humbling experience to watch the walk. "If you've never experienced it, it's really moving to look out over a huge crowd and know that they are there to help. It's fun and it's all about family and the children."
To learn more about the walk or future events, visit www.jdrf.org.


November 2006