Welcome to Step Out: Frederick, MD Walk!

We Step Out to do our part to Stop Diabetes! Participants are changing the future and making a positive impact in the lives of those who are affected by diabetes.

Step Out participants are committed to walk and raise money in this inspirational event not because 26 million people in the United States have diabetes, but because they walk among us in our lives and at the event.

Once you register, you'll be given your very own web page and will have access to lots of tools to help you fundraise your Step Out Center. You'll be able to customize the page with your reason for walking, send emails to ask others to join you or donate, and even download Facebook and smart phone apps. And of course, your Step Out Specialists (ADA staff) will be here to help all along the way!

Check back often for updates on the Step Out Walk!

You're Invited!  Step Out Frederick Kick Off Party!

*Note- you must RSVP to Kayla Twain at ktwain@diabetes.org or (410) 265-0075 ext. 4678 to attend this event*

Meet our 2013 Youth Ambassadors!

Madeline Brode

Madeline is a creative 11 year old who is excited about being a 6th grader at John Poole Middle School next fall.  She is an avid "crafter" who enjoys making duct tape projects, knitting, and designing jewelry.  Madeline has played the guitar for almost two years and just joined the lacrosse team this spring.  In addition, she is a top notch student who loves anything to do with math.

When Madeline was just 22 months old, she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.  Since she began this journey at such a young age, she has never really known any differently.  Carb counting, finger poking, injections, and insulin pumps have always been a part of her typical routine.  Madeline is extremely knowledgable about diabetes.  She is always more than happy to give an explanation or demonstration to help spread awareness.

This year will be the fourth year Madeline and her family participate in Step Out Frederick to raise money for the American Diabetes Association.  It will always be Madeline's hope that researchers will find a cure for diabetes in her lifetime.  She is proud and honored to be one of this year's Youth Ambassadors, supporting the efforts of so many of us working together to support this vital cause.

Lucy Friedman

Lucy is a hard-working freshman at Oakdale High School.  She has straight A's and is in all honors classes.  Lucy is very musical and plays instruments including guitar, bass, ukulele, and piano.  She is the guitarist for the newly formed indie-rock band called Aim at the Trees.  Lucy enjoys biking and riding her ripstik as well as helping children with special needs.

In September 2001, Lucy was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.  At only three years old, she hated the insulin shots and finger pricks.  After almost 12 years, she has not only learned to live with diabetes but has become a master at controlling her blood sugar's spastic nature.  She has been raising money for the American Diabetes Association's Step Out Frederick event for six years.  She has managed to live an almost completely normal life with help from friends and family.

There are two things that have most helped Lucy to lead a healthy and independent life with diabetes.  The first, a genius invention, is the insulin pump.  It has allowed her to eat what she wants, when she wants since she was five.  It's easy to use and is an undeniable accomplishment in diabetes management.  At the press of a button, she can take a dose of insulin.

The second thing that has had a huge impact on her life as a child with diabetes is Camp Glyndon.  Going to a summer camp especially for children with diabetes has given her the independence she needs.  At camp, kids play sports, climb rock walls, and go swimming.  All the while, they have amazing counselors to ensure diabetes control as well as good times.  The independence Lucy gained from Camp Glyndon even encouraged her to join the People to People student ambassador program and travel to Europe over the summer!

Living with diabetes may be hard, but with support from her loved ones, Lucy has managed to lead a normal life, and so can you!