Suffolk will once again be proud to host the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure this year.

Since the cycling fundraiser first came to the city several years ago, riders and volunteers have raved about the city’s beautiful country roads that lend themselves to great cycling routes, its hospitality and its convenient location to many of the people coming from far and wide for this event.

The event started at King’s Fork High School for several years, but last year it moved to the Suffolk Executive Airport. It will continue there this year, with room for a 5K run/walk for those who wish to participate but would rather stay on their feet than ride a bicycle.

The American Diabetes Association conducts research, education and advocacy that change thousands of lives every year. Their educational efforts teach ordinary folks, including many right here in Suffolk, how they can help prevent developing Type 2 diabetes and how to better manage their diabetes of either type. (Type 1 diabetes is not yet preventable.) It funds research into both types of diabetes and advocates for diabetes patients in areas like insulin affordability and those who have been discriminated against in school or at work because of their diabetes.

The work of the American Diabetes Association is very important, and that’s why we’re proud every year to publish a series of stories leading up to the Tour de Cure about the event itself, those who participate in the event and the work of the organization.

We hope you’ll find a way to participate this year, too, either by riding, running, walking, volunteering, or just visiting that day and cheering on others while you learn more about how to take control of your health.

For more information on the event, visit diabetes.org/hrtdc or call 424-6662 ext. 3269.