Jackie Gallagher, Rural Health & Nutrition Agent
Do you have diabetes or know someone who does? Unfortunately, the answer to at least one of those questions is a yes. The good news is that the more you know about the risk factors and ways to manage diabetes, you can take charge of your health and reduce your risk of developing diabetes or experiencing complications.
The Rural Health and Extension Team at Clemson Extension offers two programs focused on educating people about diabetes. One of the programs that we offer is Know Diabetes by Heart. It is a free, one-hour education session open to the public that aims to help participants understand the link between diabetes and heart disease. I have recently had the opportunity to present the program three times in Hampton County and one time in Colleton County. Participants at the sessions enjoyed a diabetes-friendly dessert and learned ways to reduce their risk of developing diabetes or experiencing complications.
Another program the Rural Health and Nutrition Team offers is Health Extension for Diabetes. This program provides participants diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes with free education, self-management resources, and support to manage diabetes better. Group members meet for 1 hour every other week for eight sessions. During the program, group members receive ongoing support and health education through weekly health coach calls. Our next program is scheduled for 1 p.m. on February 27th at the AHJ Hampton County Library. Some topics include eating healthy with diabetes, medications and monitoring, and reducing risks with diabetes. If you want to join this or a future group, don’t hesitate to contact Rural Health and Nutrition Agent Jackie Gallagher at 843-739-1002 or jgalla2@clemson.edu.
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
