From Danville Regional Health
System
Better Health Magazine Archives
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From Danville Regional Health
System
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Diabetes has no cure, but fortunately it can
be controlled. Thanks to Danville Regional
"Diabetes is a disease that
requires daily input from the
patient," said Elizabeth Pickeral, R.N., a
Diabetes Education Nurse at the Better
Health Center. "That's why we focus on
helping patients learn the diabetes self-
management skills they need to make healthy
lifestyle changes!"
 Diabetes inhibits the body from producing or properly using insulin, a hormone needed to convert some foods into energy. Through education on topics such as nutrition, exercise and monitoring blood sugar levels, three certified diabetes educators and one registered dietician teach patients how to manage the disease. According to patient Bob Denny, the combination of individualized attention during one-on-one counseling and interaction with peers in group classes gave him the knowledge and the motivation he needed to bring diabetes under control. "Although I've had diabetes for about 12 years, the program has made me so much more conscious of my health," said Denny, a retired bank executive and active volunteer in several community organizations, including Danville Regional Medical Center. "Now I make a special effort to exercise every day. I also watch what I eat more carefully, because I know exactly how it will affect my body." The ten-hour program takes two or three months to complete. "We measure patients' blood sugar levels before and after they've been through the program," said Pickeral. "By incorporating what they've learned into their daily routine, we've seen patients' blood sugar levels drop significantly." With ample parking and day and evening classes available, the Better Health Center is a convenitent location for the program. But what makes the difference for many patients is the dedication of the diabetes educators. "Not only are the educators great about answering questions, but they're very loving and caring people," said Denny. "I would strongly recommend the program to anyone with diabetes." Physician referral is required. For more information, call the Better Health Center at [434] 773-6800.
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Medical Center's Outpatient Diabetes
Education Program, patients are learning how
to lead healthier lives with diabetes.