Life as usual

"Because of jet-lag and coldness, I finished my last 600 meters with the help of another runner, Katherine Hernandez, who has a pacemaker implanted," says Wang. "I am impressed with the event. It's unforgettable. People living with medical devices got together against all odds."

"I really want to tell those suffering from diabetes not to give up. Don't let the disease stop you from the things you love," Shen says.

Medical experts say exercise is one way to manage diabetes. It will improve blood sugar level, boost overall fitness and reduce the risk of heart disease and nerve damage.

"For diabetics, regular treatment, a scientific diet and moderate exercises are necessary. Many diabetes patients mistakenly believe that they should avoid physical activities as much as possible because of the possible risk of hypoglycemia," says Shi Yongquan, a diabetes expert who is an endocrinologist at Shanghai Changzheng Hospital.

"But, diabetes patients should be well prepared before they exercise.

"Patients should work together with doctors to work out a suitable exercise schedule."

Medical experts suggest that patients track their blood sugar before, during and after exercising, because the records will reveal how the body responds to exercise, and help patients prevent potentially dangerous blood sugar fluctuations.

For the best health benefit, patients need to monitor the intensity and time of their physical activities. Half an hour of aerobics three to four times a week is recommended, experts say.

Experts also list the potential for a major epidemic of diabetes-related complications, including cardiovascular disease, stroke and chronic kidney diseases if there is no effective intervention.