Unlocking Wellness: Embark on a Transformative Journey with Our Diabetes Education Classes

Navigating the impacts of diabetes can be overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s possible to live a vibrant and healthy life. We’re thrilled to announce our comprehensive diabetes education program, designed to guide you through every aspect of managing this condition. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking to deepen your understanding, this course offers valuable insights for everyone.

Did you know? According to the CDC:

About 38 million people in the United States have diabetes, and 1 in 5 of them don’t know they have it.
About 98 million US adults—over a third—have prediabetes, and more than 8 in 10 of them don’t know they have it.
In the last 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes has more than doubled as the American population has aged and become more overweight or obese.
Medical costs for people with diabetes are more than twice as high as for people who don’t have diabetes.
Good news: Type 2 Diabetes is preventable with consistent changes in diet and lifestyle

Because so many of us are at risk for diabetes or managing the disease, we created a class to help provide knowledge and practical tools to help. Here is what you’ll learn at our 5-week Diabetes Group Class this February.

Diabetic medical supplies, a spoonful of sugar and wooden game tiles spelling "sugar"

Class Session 1: Diabetes 101 with Kimberly Torres (2/10/24)

Begin your journey with a deep dive into the basics of diabetes. This class is crafted to demystify diabetes, covering types, causes, and how it affects the body. Understanding the fundamentals is the first step toward effective management and a healthier life

A colorful collection of breads, fruits and other foods containing carbohydrates arranged around a chalkboard with the word "carbohydrates" on it

Class Session 2: Preventing Complications & Learning about Carbs with Kelli Vanini and Beth Morlang (2/17/24)

Discover the keys to avoiding long-term complications through proactive management and lifestyle choices. This class also unravels the complexities of carbohydrates – their impact on blood sugar levels, and how to make smart carb choices to maintain optimal glucose control.

A man and woman in exercise clothing walking around a running track high-fiving each other

Class Session 3: Exercise and Monitoring with Nadia Barnini and Kelli Vanini (2/24/24)

Physical activity is a key component of diabetes management. This class will focus on developing a tailored fitness routine that accommodates individual preferences and abilities. Lifestyle adjustments, stress management techniques, and sleep hygiene will also be explored to enhance overall well-being. The class will cover the importance of blood sugar testing, what the numbers mean, and what different options are out there to check your blood sugars, providing insights into how regular tracking can lead to better control and outcomes.

A collection of medicines in different forms including a syringe, tablet and caplet style pills

Class Session 4: Medications and Diet with Tomiko Watts and Beth Morlang (3/2/24)

Understanding diabetes medications, their mechanisms, and potential side effects is essential. This class aims to clarify the world of diabetes medications, insulin administration, and the importance of regular monitoring. Participants will gain confidence in managing their medications effectively. This class also delves into dietary strategies that complement medication regimes, focusing on balanced, nutritious eating plans that can positively impact blood sugar levels and overall health.

A clip board with a pen and wooden game tiles spelling the word "coping"

Class Session 5: Coping Strategies and Carb Cravings with David Newman and Beth Morlang (3/9/24)

Managing diabetes is as much about mental and emotional well-being as it is about physical health. This final class addresses common challenges like coping with stress and dealing with carb cravings. Discover strategies to navigate these hurdles, ensuring a holistic approach to diabetes care.

Meet the Instructors!

Kimberly Torres, APRN, CDCES is leading the way by providing medication adjustments, insulin pump therapy and adjustments for appropriate patients, and CGM or continuous glucose monitoring options for patients who qualify. Kim provides care primarily at our Barton clinic and does weekly rounds at our Port St. John on Wednesday mornings.

Beth Morlang, RD, LDN, CDCES, is our Registered Dietitian offering patients nutrition education, encouragement, and flexibility in managing their daily diets. Any food can fit into a meal plan, and she helps patients figure out how to eat what they enjoy, safely. Beth provides care at our Barton, Melbourne, Port St. John, Sarno, and Palm Bay clinics.

Nadia Barnini, MS, CEP is our Health Educator and working toward her CDCES. As a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Nadia brings her expertise and coaching skills that help motivate patients toward success in starting and maintaining exercise programs. She also specializes in empowering patients to make lifestyle changes to better support their health. Nadia sees patients at our clinics in Sarno and Malabar in person and via telehealth.

Tomiko Watts-Bowman, PharmD, CDCES is our clinical pharmacist and certified diabetes educator. She also works with our CGM program and provides diabetes education and specializes in in-depth appointments with patients to fully understand their history and understand their goals. Tomiko sees patients at Palm Bay, Sarno, and Barton locations.

Kelli Vanini, RN, CDCES, provides detailed and individualized diabetes education in a one-to-one setting and in the group setting. Her experience and knowledge providing diabetes care is invaluable to our patients. Kelli travels to multiple BHA clinics in the county to meet our patients where they are.

David Newman, LCSW, provides social support and behavioral health counseling to patients in our community. His focus is to help patients deal with the emotional burden that comes along with having this chronic illness.

Our diabetes education program is more than a course – it’s a gateway to a healthier, more informed lifestyle. It’s about empowering you with the knowledge and tools to confidently manage diabetes and embrace life to the fullest. Join us on this comprehensive, supportive journey towards wellness.

Enroll today by calling 321-241-6800 and take a proactive step in your diabetes management. Let’s walk this path together, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and well-being. Together, let’s unlock wellness!