‘Taking Control of My Diabetes’ program returning to Center for Healthy Living

“Taking Control of My Diabetes,” an eight-week program for those living with Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, will return in June to the Center for Healthy Living (CHL) on Purdue’s West Lafayette campus. The program will meet 3:30 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays from June 11 through Aug. 6 in the CHL conference room.

“Our goal with the program is to provide participants knowledge, resources and tools to help them take control of their Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes,” says Cheryl Laszynski, registered nurse health coach at CHL who will lead the program. “Managing this disease is impacted by many moving parts, including nutrition, exercise, sleep and stress. We will examine how all of these can impact blood glucose levels.”

The eight-week program will cover 16 sessions -- two per class meeting -- on a variety of topics related to Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes to help participants better manage their condition and live healthier lives. Participants will have access to expert services of the center’s health care professionals, including:

* A registered nurse who is a health and wellness coach.
* A pharmacist who is specially trained in medication therapy management.
* A registered dietitian who will assist with individualized meal planning.

Eligible participants will receive a glucose meter and test strips to check their blood glucose levels.

“Employees who have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes are encouraged to attend,” says Candace Shaffer, director of benefits in Human Resources. “This program is a great alternative for those who do not qualify for Virta -- as well as those who are not interested in that lifestyle -- and offers a comprehensive approach to Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. Participants will be provided with knowledge to help them take control of living with this chronic condition.”

Interested individuals should register by June 10 via the Healthy Boiler Portal. The registration link can be found under the “Engage” tab, “Wellness Events” on the portal’s homepage. Questions regarding the program can be directed to 765-494-0111.

Workshops provided by the Center for Healthy Living are free to all benefits-eligible faculty and staff and dependents covered on a Purdue medical plan.

For individuals with Type 1 diabetes

Individuals living with Type 1 diabetes are able to meet monthly with a CHL health coach but are not required to participate in the eight-week “Taking Control of My Diabetes” program to take advantage of the test strips and blood sugar meter opportunity. Contact CHL for more information at 765-494-0111.