THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, February 16, 1996 TAG: 9602140157
SECTION: CHESAPEAKE CLIPPER PAGE: 02 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY SUSAN W. SMITH, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: Medium: 59 lines
About 16 million people in the United States have diabetes, but only about half of them know it, said Nancy Clark, coordinator of the Diabetes Center at Chesapeake General Hospital.
Chesapeake has about 10,000 diabetics, including about 300 school-age children, Clark said.
``Many of these children must take two or more shots of insulin a day to stay healthy,'' she said. ``They must also check their blood sugar four to six times a day.''
Clark said children with diabetes should not be thought of merely as ``sick children.'' A child who is the only diabetic in his class or even in his school, can develop feelings of isolation. She said it's important for people to understand that children who are diabetic can participate fully in activities such as soccer, band or cheerleading.
The center offers ongoing programs to parents and children to encourage normal, healthy lifestyles.
On March 26, the center and the American Diabetes Foundation are sponsoring a ``Diabetes Alert Day.'' At Super Fresh Food Markets in Chesapeake, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach free screening and diabetes information will be offered from 4 to 6 p.m.
The Diabetes Center also does not want children with diabetes to have to give up desserts. On Feb. 20, the center is offering a free cooking class from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. called ``Sweets for the Sweet.'' The session is designed to introduce children to delicious but healthy desserts.
Linda Francis, a registered dietitian and the hospital's clinical nutrition manager, will teach the youngsters how to make desserts like parfaits and peanut butter goodies. While the cooks are sampling their creations, Francis will share some healthy eating tips.
She said that anyone with diabetes needs to follow a consistent, well-balanced diet and exercise regularly.
``People who are diabetic and follow the prescribed lifestyle are probably some of the most healthy people in our country,'' Francis said.
``The sooner these children understand their diabetes, the easier it becomes for them to manage their illness,'' she said. ``Developing skills such as healthy heating habits and learning to cook healthy foods will foster more confidence and independence in children with diabetes.''
The Diabetes Center also offers the only camp in Virginia for children with diabetes.
Clark said that May 3-5, the center will conduct a weekend camp at Triple-R-Ranch in Chesapeake. Camping, canoeing and horseback riding will be offered around informal discussions and learning sessions about diabetes.
From July 22 to 26, there will be a summer camp with a heavy emphasis on fun, balanced with learning about diabetes. MEMO: For more information or to register for ``Sweets for the Sweet,'' call
482-6132.
by CNB