Did you know that the average individual has diabetes 7-10 years before they are diagnosed? And one of every 12 Americans is affected by diabetes. In Wisconsin alone, there are 475,000 adults with diabetes and 1.45 million adults with pre-diabetes.

For individuals who have type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes or care for an individual with diabetes, good medical care is just half of the equation. Just as important, is their ability to make healthy decisions, learn about and take care of their condition.

The good news is that people who know how to take care of their diabetes can live successfully with their disease. With the help of the Healthy Living with Diabetes workshop, individuals here in Green County were able to do just that!

A previous participant who took the Healthy Living with Diabetes workshop said, “This workshop helped me organize my thoughts and actions to go forward and better manage my diabetes outside of the doctor’s office. Put the time aside for yourself…it will make a difference in your life.”

Diabetes at times can be very difficult, and may seem that “it” is in charge of you. Being able to make personalized goals, talk with others going through similar situations, and learning how to effectively communicate with your doctor will help you feel in charge of your diabetes. “I was tired and stressed out. Diabetes was my boss. It was always telling me what I couldn’t do. Healthy Living with Diabetes workshops put me back in charge. Now I have the energy to do the things that matter. I’m in control now. It put life back in my life.”

Healthy Living with Diabetes workshops meet once a week for two and half hours for six-weeks. During the six-week session, participants receive support from trained leaders and other workshop participants, learn practical ways to manage their stress and fatigue, learn about healthy eating and exercise options, foot care, relaxation techniques, learn better ways to communicate about their diabetes condition with doctors and family members, problem-solving and goal-setting.

The next workshop starts Tuesday, October 19th, from 1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m., at the Behring Senior Center, located at 1113 10th Street, Monroe. Call (608) 328-9499 to sign up today. Cost is $10.00.