Walk With Me Sugar 5K against Diabetes
Approximately twelve percent of the American population is afflicted with diabetes which amounts to approximately 40 million people. Sadly, of that number more than 11 million are unaware they have it and remain undiagnosed for years (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2026).
In 2023, diabetes was the eighth leading cause of death for more than 4,000 Ohioans (Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics). As the population continues to age and the number of people who are overweight/obese increases, that number promises to skyrocket (CDC National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2026). In 2024, nearly 1.3 million adults in Ohio were dealing with diabetes (Ohio BRFSS), increasing their risk of progressing to Type 2 diabetes a chronic condition where the body does not use insulin properly or produce sufficient levels of it, causing sugar to build up in the blood (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2026).
As part of its health initiatives, the Eta Nu Nu chapter of the illustrious Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. has placed diabetes in its crosshairs. Diabetes is just one of three diseases along with prostate and breast cancer that the men of Eta Nu Nu are determined to wage war against. For the second year in a row Columbus Greater Metropolitan area residents will participate in Eta Nu Nu’s Walk With Me Sugar 5k Run/Walk Against Diabetes at Genoa Park. A virtual option is available for those who live elsewhere and are unable to travel. Although the program is advertised as a 5k run/walk there is also a 1k option for those whose mobility is better suited for a less strenuous go of it. The men of Eta Nu Nu strongly encourage participants to get tested for diabetes by volunteers from the Columbus Free Clinic who will be manning stations throughout the morning.
Last year’s event was a huge hit with plenty of participants and strong sponsorship support. Everyone who completed the course earned a medal. Participants also received gift bags and an eye-catching t-shirt. Lots of fun, camaraderie, and music filled the day. Some took the opportunity to make new friends while others reconnected with old acquaintances. The atmosphere was festive and the mood upbeat. This year promises to build on last year’s success and be even more spectacular. Four-Star Freightliner was the presenting sponsor last year, but ELB Philanthropy holds that distinction this year. This year’s twelve sponsors include Big Star Transit, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Abbott Nutrition, and Follow Me Harris Consulting, to name a few. Last year’s event raised $60,000 which was donated to the Columbus Free Clinic.
There is still time to register. Join the men of the Eta Nu Nu chapter of the illustrious Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in the fight against diabetes. You’ll be glad you did.
Judson L. Jeffries PhD, MPH, is Professor of African American and African Studies at the Ohio State University.
