North Andover Fitness Together Business Owner Steps Out for Diabetes

For the second year in a row, Maureen Sullivan, owner of served as her studio’s team captain in the Boston Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes on Oct. 22 on Boston Common. Sullivan’s studio is part of a collaborative effort by participating Fitness Together Studios throughout New England, which have pledged to raise $25,000 for the American Diabetes Association.

During the course of the day, Sullivan met a number of people who approached the Fitness Together table to share their personal stories of family members who have either type I or II diabetes. 

“One young woman spoke about her experience babysitting her young cousin when he was a child and having to administer his injections, “says Sullivan. “He had an older brother who did not have the disease. The young boy would cry every time he had his injections.  This young woman shared a moment when the young boy turned to his older brother and said, ‘When I grow up, there will be a cure of my disease and I’ll be normal just like you.’” Sullivan continues, “She said she never forget this moment years ago when her young cousin made his comment.”

It’s no surprise this woman has shared such a personal story with Sullivan, who is, for all intents and purposes a total stranger. Maureen says a lot of women who come to her studio need someone to talk to as much as they need fitness expertise, and over the years she’s learned to be a good listener.

Sullivan is clearly impressed with the young woman’s story. “Here we are years later, closer to a cure, but still a high number of people suffering from the disease. That is why she walks every year.”

As Sullivan points out, this cause matters a lot to a lot of people and the money raised is a big part of it. MC’d by Mix 104 morning drive disc jockey Karson, the opening ceremony featured team leaders and corporate sponsor presentations. Fitness Together studio owner and Marketing Director Steve Lichtman presented a check to the ADA for $20,000 from all Fitness Together Studios participating in the 2011 ADA co-operative program.

Maureen Sullivan is proud to be part of that effort. “It is a pleasure to be an owner of Fitness Together and be partnered with the ADA to continue to find a cure for diabetes.”

To learn more about Fitness Together’s fitness programs and type 2 diabetes programs, contact Maureen Sullivan at Fitness Together in North Andover at

978-659-0047 or check out the web site at www.ftnorthandover.com.