Diabetes is a diagnosis no one wants. It impacts all kinds of people in many different ways. Yet a broad majority can thrive despite it with a little determination and a lot of information. That's where the Diabetes Education Team at FHN comes in... and makes a huge difference.
Several instructional programs provide proactive strategies to help diabetic patients cope and flourish. Ronnie Bush, for example, recently needed a dietary tune-up. After going too long without food — a big diabetes no-no — his glucose numbers plummeted as they have from time to time. As a result, he nearly passed out during a community meeting. A quick trip to FHN prompted a thorough evaluation and a new focus on nutritional know-how.
Ronnie had attended classes with Certified Diabetic Educator Nicolette Drane years ago, but needed a refresher. "I knew I was tempting fate by not eating right," he sighs. "Nicolette reminded me of what I need to do better. She gave me tools to help. Now it is up to me. As an African-American, I am very aware that diabetes hits this segment of our community particularly hard. I hope more people will learn about how they can prevent or manage this serious condition."
To find out more about the wide variety of diabetes education programs available at FHN, call us at 815-599-6253.