Many people feel anxious and confused when they hear they have diabetes.  They start reading about it in brochures, books and on websites. Family, friends and neighbors offer advice.  All these opinions may leave them more confused. 

Here are some truths about diabetes:

“Nearly 26 million Americans suffer from diabetes, and a third of those don’t even realize it,” said Carol Inkrott, dietitian and certified diabetes educator at Wooster Community Hospital. Another 79 million have prediabetes, a condition that not only puts them at risk of developing full-blown diabetes but also signifies that damage to blood vessels and nerves has already begun.

The Diabetes Support Group at Wooster Community Hospital will host the free program “Diabetes in Motion – Exercise Options Near You” in the hospital auditorium on Monday, August 20th, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. A panel of exercise specialists from our area will discuss walking and biking paths, Silver Sneakers, options for those with physical limitations, and ideas for exercising alone or in a group.

In addition to Dawn McClure, who teaches exercise classes at Wooster Community Hospital’s HealthPoint facility, the panel will include:

Q. My father and I have diabetes. I've heard about programs where we can learn how to manage our diabetes. Will Medicare cover this for Dad? Will my insurance cover it?

A. It sounds like you have heard about Diabetes Self-Management Training (DSMT). These programs help patients discover how to live safely with diabetes day by day. They learn about balanced eating, exercise, foot care, blood sugar testing, and much more.

The American Diabetes Association urges everyone with diabetes to attend DSMT.

The Diabetes Support Group at Wooster Community Hospital will host the free program “Diabetes on Vacation – Eat Well, Travel Well” in the hospital auditorium on Monday, June 18th, from 6:00-7:00 p.m.

As we enter the summer, our vacation and travel plans can make managing diabetes more difficult. It is possible to eat well and travel well with diabetes, however. Join us as Carol Inkrott, RD, LD, Certified Diabetes Educator shares tips and lessons with us. Bring your own ideas and suggestions, and be prepared to share and learn together!

The Diabetes Support Group at Wooster Community Hospital will host the free program “The Toll Anger Can Take When Dealing With Diabetes” in the hospital auditorium on Monday, April 16th, from 6:00-7:00 p.m.