Diabetes Health Fair in Kalispell
Don't Miss the Bus!
September 28, 2007
St. John’s diabetes support group is sponsoring a bus to the national conference on Diabetes: Take Control of your Diabetes (TCOYD) conference & health fair at the Outlaw Inn in Kalispell, Saturday, October 20th. The conference brings national, as well as local medical experts specializing in diabetes care. Leading experts will discuss new developments in the treatment of diabetes including complications, psychological barriers, nutritional issues, practical advice, and much more. St. John’s Lutheran Hospital Diabetes and Nutrition program developed the quality diabetes support group program in an effort to meet the needs of people who want current information to better manage their diabetes. The vision of this program comes from the dedicated members who want to enhance their self-care and disease management.
The Diabetes Support Group is also funded through the Combined Campaign. This year, the Combined Campaign funds are being used to offset travel expenses for conference goers. “We elected to use the funds to make the conference more affordable for anyone who wants to attend,” said Becky Brundin, Manager of the Diabetes and Nutrition Department at St John’s. “This type of educational opportunity does not present itself very often; offering the travel for $5.00 a person should open it up to many more people.”
Support Group members are really ramping up for this conference. “TCOYD is like one-stop shopping for all your diabetes needs,” commented Sally Sprecher, President of the Diabetes Support Group. “The 25 informational exhibits from national and local diabetes-related companies will be open throughout the day and are just too important to miss.”
“Support group activities are a key extension of formal classes, as patients need ongoing support to keep themselves motivated,” added Brundin. “Studies have shown that with increased knowledge and social support, people with diabetes can improve their glucose control. It can be overwhelming to understand all the terms, research, and products available. Monthly meetings help reinforce current diabetes management guidelines.”
Medical professionals statewide recommend attending. “The Take Control Conference is a fantastic way for people to help educate themselves on the multiple aspects of diabetes. I really believe that knowledge is power when it comes to managing one’s health,” states Dr. Michele Danicich of Endocrinology Associates in Missoula, MT.
Pre-registration must be completed by October 9th. The cost of the conference is $15 per person if you pre-register. After October 9th, the cost is $25.00 for registration. There is also a $5 fee for those riding the bus. Financial aid is available for those who need assistance. For more information, call 293-0175.
St. John's Lutheran Hospital Media Release
Related Link:
St. John’s Lutheran Hospital, www.sjlh.com
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