D-People

Teen Teams Up to Fight Diabetes

Each spring, one teenager inspires about 50 people to join her for a bike ride.  And to date, these cyclists have raised nearly $80,000 pedaling for the American Diabetes Association.

Kaileigh Moore, 17, of Saratoga Springs, N.Y., is the team captain of her Family and Friends Tour de Cure team. 

“The first time I participated in the Tour de Cure, it exceeded all my expectations,” she said. “As soon as I finished the ride, I couldn’t wait to do it again next year.”

The American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure is a ride — not a race — with routes designed for everyone from families, exercise enthusiasts to the avid, experienced cyclist. Each community with a Tour de Cure designs routes that promise fun and exercise.  The rides are supported from start to finish with rest stops, food, and encouraging cheers along the journey.

“It’s great for me to see so many friendly faces, and to meet other people like me who are living normal lives with diabetes,” said Kaileigh. “It gives me more courage to fight through the hard days that diabetes can bring by knowing that there are so many other people out there who support me.”

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes the day after her 13th birthday, Kaileigh is now entering her freshman year at Union College, Schenectady, N.Y.  Even with the heavy load of school work as pre-med major, Kaleigh plans to continue her Tour de Cure team in 2009.

Recently, a local television station featured Kaliegh for her volunteer and fund-raising efforts for the American Diabetes Association.  During the news story, Kaileigh described Tour de Cure as one of her favorite days of the year.  “I almost like it more than Christmas,” she said. “I wake up in the morning so excited and then when it’s over it’s almost like — you don’t want to leave.”

To learn more about Tour de Cure and find an event near you, visit http://diabetes.org/tour or call 888-DIABETES.