PES Students Dress in Costume for School Walk for Diabetes, an event to benefit the American Diabetes Association

   Pomperaug Elementary School gathered their students for a School Walk for Diabetes, an event of the American Diabetes Association, on Wednesday, April 6th from 3:30-5:00pm at the school's playing fields.

   Students in grades 2-5 asked their family, friends and neighbors to make a pledge to their school walk to help raise money to find a cure for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Students participating each walked on a team and dressed in costume related to their team names. Team names included the Diabetes Doctors and Heart Helpers. Teams also created banners to hang along the soccer field fence.  "I'm thrilled with the enthusiasm, effort and creativity that organizers and students at PES are showing in support of their School Walk for Diabetes," said Krista Howell, market manager at the American Diabetes Association. "Pomperaug Elementary School is one of Connecticut's top fundraising schools this school year and these funds will provide diabetes research, education and information to the 200,000 people and families in our state living with diabetes." Pomperaug Elementary School raised over $17,000.

   "Half way through the school walk, the Carrot Tops team was awarded with best costume and the Sugar Patrol team was awarded for raising the most money. Fifth grader Max C. was awarded for raising the most money with $400.  "This event is very important to all of us at PES because we have three students with diabetes and we want to help the American Diabetes Association by raising money to help find a cure," said Jeromie Schumacher, PE Teacher and School Walk coordinator at Pomperaug Elementary School.

   School Walk for Diabetes is an education fundraising event that provided health information for physical education teachers, school nurses, and parent volunteers and teaches young people about diabetes. Students have the opportunity to raise funds for diabetes research and education. Schools are eligible to receive gift certificates to purchase new playground/gym equipment or school medical supplies based upon a percentage of the amount raised.

   The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the Association supports volunteers in every state and region of the country, providing service to more than 800 communities.

   For more information, call Krista Howell at 1-888-DIABETES ext. 3534, or visit http://www.diabetes.org/schoolwalk.