AFN Greets Peacekeepers Pedaling for Aboriginal People with Diabetes

OTTAWA, May 20 – On Thursday morning, May 21st, the Assembly of First Nations will greet the Peacekeepers Pedaling for Aboriginal People with Diabetes (PPAD) as they set out on the last leg of their cross-Canada bicycle tour. The tour focuses on working with Aboriginal communities to promote awareness about diabetes.The PPAD will leave from Ottawa on Thursday May 21st at 11:00 am and are scheduled to arrive in St. John’s Newfoundland on June 10th. PPAD cyclists will be available to speak to media and for photo opportunities prior to their departure.

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Thursday May 21, 2009
473 Albert Street, 11th Floor

Participating cyclists include Guy Lonechild (former Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Vice Chief), Warren Isbister (City of Saskatoon), Mike Tantun (Central Urban Métis Federation Inc.) and members of the Saskatchewan Police Department (Sgt. Tony Nadon, Sgt. Todd Bayly, Cst. Corridawne MacKenzie).

PPAD cyclists give presentations to communities, schools and organizations along or close to their bike route to increase awareness of Type 2 diabetes. The rate of diabetes among First Nations is 20 percent, which means one in five First Nation people are diabetic. While there is no cure for Type 2 diabetes, risks associated with diabetes can be reduced through diet, exercise, early diagnosis and treatment. However, according to the First Nations Regional Longitudinal Health Survey, 9 out of 10 First Nations adults with diabetes have experienced loss of vision, problems with their legs and feet; kidney infections or heart trouble, which suggests a need to further promote awareness of how risks associated with diabetes can be reduced.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

For further information: Don Kelly, A/Communications Director, Assembly of First Nations, (613) 241-6789 ext. 334, cell: (613) 292-2787, dkelly@afn.ca