Unique Aboriginal Diabetes Conference attracts record numbers

Record numbers of First Nations people are signing up for the aboriginal conference,
Diabetes - Caring for you and your community
June 6, 2008
9:15 am - 4 pm
Moravian of the Thames First Nation

Originally planned for 250, registrants now top 300 and a wait list is being compiled. It started when the Diabetes Education Centre (DEC) at Middlesex Hospital Alliance partnered with First Nations in Southwestern Ontario to deliver an Aboriginal Diabetes Conference.

"The rate of diabetes is three to five times greater for Aboriginal peoples than for the general population," Marilyn Tobias, Community Health Representative, Moravian of the Thames First Nation. Diabetes is a serious disease. It can cause blindness, kidney problems, and heart disease.

"Diabetes can be managed-through lifestyle choices, medication and blood glucose testing-to reduce the risk of serious complications. Learning how to manage the disease is one of the major roles played by the Diabetes Education Centre (DEC)" Alison Lenny, Program Co-ordinator, DEC.

"The goal of this conference is to empower adult First Nations people to take positive self-care action that will result in better health outcomes for diabetes," Marilyn Tobias, Community Health Representative, Moravian of the Thames First Nation. In addition, the conference provides healthcare workers with insight into culturally-sensitive information to help them partner more effectively with First Nations people for diabetes care.

This conference demonstrates a unique partnership between Diabetes Educators and Aboriginal communities - all of whom are committed to long term diabetes support.

"The conference program features inspirational and entertaining speakers, the popular SOADI foot care clinic, a Tai Chi break, exhibits and door prizes." Barbara Whiteye, member of the planning committee and Diabetes Prevention Coordinator for SOADI (Southern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative) Western Region.

"The SOADI team of committed professionals will provide holistic foot care to as many people as possible during the day. The conference is a great opportunity to reach more people with our foot care program." Shannon VanEvery, SOADI footcare coordinator.

"Conference participants will learn about nurturing self-esteem, healthy eating for diabetes, how to make and maintain positive lifestyle choices and how best to support one another. The day emphasizes the participants' own experiences and culturally-appropriate material." Alison Lenny, Program Co-ordinator, DEC.

The Conference will be held at Moraviantown Community Centre. Exciting presenters include Bea Shawanda, Chef David Wolfman and Alex McComber.

Bea Shawanda, internationally known for her life-enhancing approach, her humour and her powerful stories, will deliver the keynote address Nurturing our resilient spirit during a change in health.

Chef David Wolfman, star of the nationally televised show Cooking with the Wolfman, will entertain and inform as he demonstrates Aboriginal Fusion: Traditional foods with a modern twist.

Alex McComber's compelling message on Personal empowerment and diabetes prevention will motivate and delight and leave participants with ideas for action.

The full day begins with a welcome from Chief Gregory Peters, features dancers and drummers at lunch and a sacred fire. It ends with a prayer for a safe journey home.

For more information please contact the Diabetes Education Centre (DEC) at Middlesex Hospital Alliance (MHA), 519-693-4441 ext. 2489 or diabeteseducationcentreP@mha.tvh.ca

Connecting with the Future of Care

Unique Aboriginal Diabetes Conference attracts record numbers