Students in 6th grade at the International College IC -Ain Aar in Beirut (Lebanon) organised a Bike-A-Thon in collaboration with DiaLeb on 23 June that welcomed over 200 participants. Their inspiration for the event came while studying Ancient Greek history and the Olympic games.

At the launch, Dr. Jackie Maalouf, president of DiaLeb, and Nour Ibrahim, a young girl living with diabetes, were guest speakers. Their talks to students stressed the importance of raising funds for children with diabetes who are unable to buy insulin and treatment accessories. They also gave examples of healthy lifestyles for people living with diabetes and to prevent the condition.

Proceeds from the Bike-A-Thon will go towards DiaLeb awareness raising activities to promote healthy lifestyles and spread awareness about diabetes so those living with the condition, their families and carers can better manage health outcomes.

The initiative had a profound effect on the students, including Emile Obeid, “I’m proud of the fact that with the help of my legs and while biking and having fun, I was able to raise money for kids living with diabetes. Even when I felt like giving up, I had that relentless feeling of willpower to thrive and give the kids who live with diabetes hope for a better future.”

Learn more about the DiaLeb Bike-A-Thon in this vlog produced by students at the International College IC -Ain Aar.