Gifford Medical Center Plans Free Diabetes Education Expo

Gifford Medical Center in Randolph has a Diabetes Clinic providing specialized care to diabetes patients and regularly holds self-management classes. On Friday, Nov. 2, Gifford will host its third annual Diabetes Education Expo from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the hospital’s conference center.

This free educational health fair will include talks by experts in the field of diabetes care and vendors displaying the latest in diabetes management products.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin—the hormone needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy for daily living. Nearly 21 million Americans are thought to have diabetes and the number grows daily.

Gifford Diabetes Coordinator Jennifer Stratton, a certified diabetes educator and registered dietitian, calls the disease "an epidemic."

The Diabetes Education Expo is a way for the hospital to help educate the growing number of diabetes sufferers in central Vermont about the evolving disease and what new help is available.

"It gives diabetes patients more self-management tips and techniques," Stratton says.

Since its founding three years ago, the expo has been popular, and last year, it attracted nearly 80 people from throughout the area.

This year’s event will include:

•10-11 a.m., Gifford endocrinologist Dr. Susanne Trost talks about "Diagnosed with Diabetes? What to Expect Over the Years."

•11 a.m., information booths open.

•11-11:30 a.m., exercise tips and stretching.

•11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., lunch.

•12:30-1 p.m., nutrition advice from Gifford registered dietitian Jennifer Stratton.

•1-2 p.m., ophthalmologist Dr. Christopher Soares, of Soares Ocular Surgery, speaks about "Diabetic Retinopathy."

•2-2:30 p.m., browse information books, and Curves exercise demonstration.

•2:30-3:30 p.m., Gifford chef Ed Striebe shares simple one-pot meals.

•2-4 p.m., free chair massages from Integrative Health of Randolph.

•3:30-4 p.m., participants evaluate the expo.

Participation is the Diabetes Education Expo is free, but those wanting lunch must register by Oct. 26 by calling the Gifford Diabetes Clinic at 728-2295.

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