Celebrating World Diabetes Day

Filed in archive News on November 14, 2006

November 14: World Diabetes Day. A day set aside for education and inspiration, to remind us of the importance of our health, and that we are ultimately in control.

It is not a day of fear or bitterness, but one of bravery, facing the condition head on, and of strength, gaining the courage and information necessary to take the best care of ourselves.

The date was chosen in honor of frederick Banting, the physician who first revolutionized diabetes research. This year's theme is "Diabetes Care For Everyone."

Often, health and happiness lie in the way you look at things:

It helps to know diabetes actually has some perks. "I'm on the healthiest diet that most people should be on," said Carol Marks, 60, of South Brunswick, who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in February. She's also learned from nutrition experts at the Diabetes Care and Control Center at Saint Peter's University Hospital how to enjoy occasional treats without messing up her blood sugars. Recently, she says, "I had a piece of cake. Now, I plan for it. I went on a trip for a couple of weeks and I ate all that everyone else ate, but I ate amounts I should eat and I know what combinations of foods I should eat. I'm so happy with myself. Education is the answer, the absolute answer."

How are you celebrating this day?