OutRun Diabetes Runner Visits Mahaska Health Partnership
Doug Masiuk (left) is seen here with MHP’s Diabetes Educator Sharon Ferguson (right) (submitted photo)
MAHASKA COUNTY – After a rainy morning of running, Doug Masiuk stopped by Mahaska Health Partnership in Oskaloosa to have a hot meal and chat with MHP Diabetes Educator Sharon Ferguson.
Doug Masiuk is running from California to New York to raise diabetes awareness. He began his run on May 20 and plans to reach his goal by the end of November or early December. Along the way he has stopped in many small towns and big cities, speaking to anyone who would listen about his life with diabetes and how others can learn to manage and even prevent the disease in some cases.
“Around 230 people have run across the United States, so I thought, why not someone with diabetes,” said Masiuk, “It’s not only a personal goal, but also a chance for me to connect with the diabetic community.”
Being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of three, Masiuk didn’t let the disease be the end of his story. He is an advocate for others with diabetes and encourages them to take control of their disease, even if it means starting small.
“All it takes is thirty seconds. Take a run around the block. Maybe tomorrow you’ll be able to go farther. Maybe today you exercise for 30 seconds. Tomorrow you’re at a minute,” encouraged Masiuk. “It’s all about taking that first step to bettering your health.”
At MHP, Diabetes Educator Sharon Ferguson echoes Masiuk’s message and encourages people with diabetes to meet with her to learn about managing their disease. If you have a family history of diabetes, you may have a higher risk and can learn about proactive steps you can take to prevent the continuation.
“If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and haven’t seen a diabetes educator you are doing yourself a disservice,” said Masiuk. “Diabetes is not a death sentence; it’s a second chance at living a healthier life.”
For more information about Doug Masiuk’s run across the US for diabetes, visit www.1run.org. Additional information about diabetes diagnoses and management can be obtained by contacting MHP Diabetes Educator Sharon Ferguson at 641-672-3422.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, call 641-672-3240 or visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
