MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Two South Dakota landmarks will be illuminated in blue Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, to recognize World Diabetes Day and support people living with diabetes.
The South Dakota Diabetes Coalition says the Falls in Sioux Falls and the Brontosaurus statue at Dinosaur Park in Rapid City will participate in the global “Go Blue for Diabetes” campaign.
The lighting coincides with Diabetes Awareness Month in November, highlighting early detection, ongoing management and efforts to reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
How Does Diabetes Affect South Dakota?
According to the coalition, diabetes affects approximately 1 in 10 South Dakotans and 1 in 4 Native Americans in the state. The organization says nearly 1 in 3 South Dakotans are at risk of developing the disease.
The coalition identifies access to care, preventive services and diabetes education as continuing challenges in rural communities.
Where Can South Dakotans Find Diabetes Education?
The coalition offers monthly virtual Empower SD Education Sessions for South Dakotans living with diabetes.
According to its announcement, Type 1 diabetes sessions take place the first Tuesday of each month, while Type 2 sessions meet the second Tuesday. Both begin at 7 p.m. Central time, or 6 p.m. Mountain time.
Residents can visit the Empower SD education page for resources, recordings and session updates.
Additional campaign information is available at WorldDiabetesDay.org.