In 2013, we will offer 4 educational programs covering a very wide range of topics. Classes will be taught by two Certified Diabetes Educators from the University of Virginia Diabetes Education and Management Program and a Certified Wellness Coach from the Harry L. Coomes Recreation Center in Abingdon, Virginia.

Please check below for a description of the programs and their instructors. To see a schedule of our program offerings, click here.

Self Management Basics

Instructor: Shirley Fleishman, RN, CDE

This class covers areas identified by the American Diabetes Association as essential to successfully manage diabetes. Topics include definition, diagnosis, and types of diabetes, target glucose goals, oral and injectable medications for type 1 and type 2 diabetes, treatment of hypoglycemia, sick day guidelines, foot care, and diabetes complications. An in-depth discussion of insulin will be covered in the Glucose Control, Activity, and Stress class ( see below).

Nutrition Basics

Instructor: Viola Holmes, MS, RD, CDE

This class provides up-to-date, helpful information that participants can readily use to plan meals that will improve their blood glucose control and are heart healthy. Topics include nutrient effects on blood glucose, healthy food choices, serving sizes, reading food labels, use of non-nutritive sweeteners, use of alcohol, recommendations for fats and fiber, and healthy snack choices.

Eat Smart, Change Your Lifestyle

Instructor: Viola Holmes, MS, RD, CDE

Do you feel like you hear a lot of information about eating, but still don’t know what to do? This class focuses on the “how to” aspects of changing what you eat. Topics include tips about shopping for healthy meals, portion sizes, easy ways to cut calories, avoiding common eating traps, tips on how to eat healthier. The class will end with a discussion of how to set personal goals for improving your lifestyle.

Glucose Control, Activity, and Stress

Instructors: Shirley Fleishman, RN, CDE and Jennifer Johnson, BS in Sports Medicine, CWC, ADC

This class will focus on blood glucose control. Topics include an in-depth discussion of insulin management, case studies to understand and interpret daily glucose patterns, and a discussion of how eating, activity, and medication can be adjusted to improve glucose. The focus will then shift to interactive sessions on physical activity and managing stress. Activities include 20 minutes of stretching using resistance bands and practice with deep breathing and relaxation.