NORWICH – In Broome and Oneida counties, an active approach is being taken annually to raise money and awareness for diabetes, a disease that kills thousands of people each year. Locally, one woman is trying to do the same by starting an annual “bike-ride” fundraiser here.

Nancy Peterson has recently been authorized to represent the American Diabetes Association (ADA), Syracuse chapter, and has started collecting donations. Her first bike/car ride has been coined “Heidee’s Cruise for Diabetes.” This event is dedicated to her daughter, who died last year from the complications of the disease.

“I wanted to open it up to cars as well because not everyone may have, or want, to ride a bike,” said Peterson.

The ride will be held Saturday, Aug. 2, and will begin at the Ontario Hotel in Norwich. The event will conclude with a chicken barbecue at the Balsam Inn in Pharsalia. Peterson said the charge is $15 per bike or car with the barbecue included. “There will be a poker hand, raffles, prizes and a DJ service,” she said.