When I was first invited to the Diabetes Self-Management Program, I came, not for myself, but for family members who were dealing with Diabetes. I thought I knew a lot about diabetes, having dealt with it from taking care of my mom, who had diabetes. The more I came to each session, the more I realized how much I didn't know, and the impact that diabetes can have on a person's life if they are not managing themselves to prevent complications that can come if the disease is not managed well.
My Mom was on a G-tube. We did not have to count carbs or watch any foods that she ate. Her blood glucose levels were usually in range, and if they were not, (usually low glucose level), we gave her a cola to sip on, or a small piece of candy to place in her mouth. That would remedy her glucose levels.
With other family members, I was taught the knowledge about the correct way to eat to avoid the complications that come with not managing diabetes, which has been a help to, not only family members, but to others as well, whether they have diabetes or can share the information with someone they know who has it. I eventually trained to co-teach the Diabetes Self-Managing Program and I see the faces of people, who think they know, like when I first came as a participant, about the disease. As the weeks progress, you can see their faces change to, "I didn't know that." Yes, it's more than counting carbs, but about the tools in the diabetes toolbox that is presented to them, and how to use them. Some participants come for a second session!! I could go on, but I am going to stop and just say I am thankful that this program is helping so many lives, and I am glad to be a part of this. K.Wesley
I enrolled in the Diabetes Class as a suggestion from my friend. Although I do not have diabetes, it does run in my family. I used this class as an educational tool re preventative to avert & prevent becoming a diabetic. The instructors were enthusiastic & knowledgeable in providing information. Because of this class, I have become more aware of the lifestyle changes I need to make for better health.
Great place to receive Diabetes Education! This six-week workshop is for people with or at-risk for Diabetes. It teaches the skills needed in the day-to-day management of Diabetes. We meet once a week for 2.5 hours. The meetings are highly interactive, focusing on building skills, sharing experiences and support. This program is designed to help participants gain self-confidence with the ability to control symptoms, develop weekly action plans, ask questions to assist in problem solving and work with their own Health Care Teams. This is an evidence-based program, and it works!
I want to express my sincere efforts and knowledge gained from doing the "Diabetes spring workshop at the Friends-Meeting Quaker House in Chester, Pa." I want to have a great amount of knowledge gained in the general category of Diabetes II and how to manage it the most greatful way. My food intake has changed considerably and now I am using the dietary labels on the back of the products and know what to look for in choosing a product that is very nutritious and not very sodium and carbohydate heavy. Please accept my thoughts and studies in doing this course and with doing something with Standford University - top ten schools. Sincerely, Mark P. Souders