Click here for a larger view

(Honesdale, September 18, 2007)… “Excellent presentation! I gained confidence through knowledge in my ability to better manage my diabetes.” That was just one of several positive comments written about Wayne Memorial Hospital’s diabetes classes this past April. Carol Kneier, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator, helps people not only live with diabetes but live well with the illness. Her next class starts Thursday, October 11th. It runs for four consecutive Thursdays at the Hospital, from 6:30-8pm.

      “Diabetes doesn’t have to control you. You control it,” Kneier tells her students. Her course, called “Living Well With Diabetes,”  covers a basic understanding of diabetes and medications used to control it; the benefits of exercise; the role of food in diabetes care; menu planning and label reading; and preventing problems, glucose monitoring and good care from head to toe. Long-term or newly diagnosed diabetics will benefit from these classes.

      Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy for daily life. Both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles in the development of the disease, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA).  The group’s research shows that more than 20 million Americans have diabetes— about 7% of the population.

      Pre-registration is required for Kneier’s course. For information or to register, contact Carol Kneier at (570) 253-8149. The cost of the four-session program is $50 per person. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Each person registered may bring one support person.

###