Boomer Corner

Last month, in what’s become an annual tradition for me, I attended the annual San Diego conference of Taking Control of Your Diabetes (TCOYD).  What a terrific organization this is, offering very needed information and services – not only here in Southern California but in close to a dozen cities nationwide.  Believing that people with diabetes should take charge of their health, TCOYD offers a unique and personal way for patients and family members to understand diabetes and become active members of their health care teams.

TCOYD conferences and health fairs held in cities across the nation draw thousands of people with diabetes and their loved ones, along with those at risk for this potentially dangerous condition.  Attendees have contact with national and local medical professionals and others with expertise related to living with the disease.  For one day of highly informative and motivational programs, TCOYD participants attend lectures, participate in screenings, and speak one-on-one with diabetes specialists including physicians, exercise specialists, dietitians, diabetes educators, podiatrists, pharmacists and ophthalmologists.

This setting allows for participants to receive unbiased information on the latest findings of clinical research, the availability of new equipment and medications, proper diet and exercise, legal and insurance issues, and resources that are available to people with diabetes and their families.

At the midday break, a seated banquet luncheon features an entertaining and inspirational speaker, who shares something from his or her own experience of living with diabetes.  Because nutrition information is especially important for those with diabetes, nutrition profiles are provided for all components of the meal.

A highlight of the day is the health fair, featuring 50+ informational exhibits from national and local diabetes-related companies and organizations.

Hats off to Steve Edelman, MD, TCOYD founder and director, Sandy Bourdette, co-founder and executive director, and their team, for the great job they do empowering those with diabetes to live healthier, productive, enjoyable lives.

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