IN celebration of the World Health Day Diabetes South Africa aims to bring awareness, support and education to people living with diabetes.
The committee of the East London branch are made up of volunteers who assist people living with this condition – whether they are insulin dependent (IDDM Type 1) or non-insulin dependent (NIDDM Type 2).
“We believe in partnerships and have been invited by other organizations like The Hercules Boot Camp and the South African Police Service – Cambridge Branch to do blood glucose testing. In addition, where we find a person’s blood glucose is very high, we advise them to go to the nearest clinic or to their doctor,” said liaison officer, Vrooda Makhan.
“There is also a diabetes educator at our East London branch who advises and counsels people whose blood sugars are abnormal and if the person is unaware that they are at risk, the educator will then counsel them and refer them to their GP.
“If the person is known to have diabetes she reinforces medication, diet and exercise. She will also encourage them to visit their GPs.. “
The East London branch have meetings on the first Saturday of each month where experts are guest speakers who discuss various topics related to diabetes including the impact of the disease of the eyes, kidneys, heart, feet and the nervous system.
“We bring awareness and educate people about diabetes so that they can live a healthy life without complications,” she said.
The meetings are on the first Saturday of each month at the Regent Hotel’s Terrace Room on the Esplanade from 2:45 – 4:00 pm.
For more information call her on 083 708 0489.
