La Cala de Mijas is due to host its eighth annual diabetes-awareness walk on Sunday, 8 November. Organised by the La Cala Lions Diabetic Support Group, the event will start at 10am in Plaza del Torreón before following a five-kilometre route along the coastal boardwalk.
This year’s campaign message is early detection. Organisers are inviting residents and visitors to take part in the walk, which is open to all ages. Children and pets are welcome, and the route is described by the organisers as accessible to people with reduced mobility. A group warm-up is planned before the walk begins.
Taking part is free, though donations are welcome. People who cannot cover the route can still support the fundraiser by sponsoring a walker; businesses, clubs and groups of friends are also encouraged to participate as teams. The sponsorship money is intended to support diabetes awareness and local projects.
The event will extend beyond the walk itself. Plaza del Torreón is also due to host a market, music and entertainment, as well as children’s activities and stalls selling food, crafts and Christmas gifts. Volunteers are expected to provide information about diabetes and free glucose tests.
The Lions group said last year’s event drew more than 200 walkers. That figure is from the organisers’ account and is not a forecast for this year. The November date falls six days before World Diabetes Day, which is observed on 14 November.
No advance registration is required. People seeking details or sponsorship forms can contact the Lions charity shop in La Cala or call 607 879 450. The organisers say commemorative T-shirts will be available to the first 200 arrivals, so supplies are limited.