Running or walking can keep one healthy and doing it for a cause can make it even more motivational.

In all, 45 men and women, ages 20 to 60, came out to take part in the third annual Palmerton 5K for Diabetes.The three-mile run, which started and ended in the borough park, gave area residents a chance to get involved and fight against diabetes in their community.All the funds or donations raised during the race/walk will be contributed to the American Diabetic Association.Trophies were given to the fastest male and female runners and medals were awarded to the top three runners in each age category. Each participant received a T-shirt and a bag filled with information about diabetes and "goodies.""It was a good turnout and we are happy that all the people showed up to support the cause." said Dawn Fernandez, director of North East Pa. for Diabetes.Carla Majczan was the organizer and founder of the Palmerton 5K since it began two years ago. She knows firsthand the struggles that come with having Type 1 Diabetes since childhood. She joins millions of Americans who also have some form of diabetes."Carla could not make it today because she had to work but I know she is very, very thankful for all the people who came out today to support the cause," added Fernandez.Volunteer Cece Walker from Bethlehem helped hand out drinks and light snacks to all the runners who took part in the race/walk."I am involved because my grandfather has diabetes and I just wanted to help out in any way I could" said Walker."We are already looking forward to planning next years race," added FernandezDiabetes is a disease in which the body cannot convert food into energy, leading to high blood sugar levels. It can cause serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, circulation problems and damage to the eyes, skin or nerves.A simple blood test can determine if diabetes is a threat to your body.To learn more information on the disease, visit

www.diabetes.org.