Why We "Ride To Live"

If you would like to tell us why you think Ride To Live is an important event to you or another close to you, please submit your story. You also can read below why it's important to others.

Bring your photos of people you know who have been diagnosed with diabetes to the Ride To Live and put them on the "Why I Ride Board" to let everyone know why you are joining in the fight against this terrible disease.

Why Ride?

The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading nonprofit health organization providing diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the American Diabetes Association conducts programs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, reaching more than 800 communities.

Our mission: to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. To fulfill this mission, the American Diabetes Association funds research, publishes scientific findings, provides information and other services to people with diabetes, their families, health care professionals and the public. The Association is also actively involved in advocating for scientific research and for the rights of people with diabetes.

Where does the money go?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that has no cure. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors, such as obesity and lack of exercise, appear to play roles. There are an estimated 23.6 million people in the United States, or 7.8% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 17.9 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 5.7 million people (or nearly one quarter) are unaware that they have the disease.

Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of the millions of Americans who suffer from this life-threatening disease. The generosity of donors is vital as we continue our efforts to search for a cure, educate people with diabetes, and invest in the health of future generations.