Mercy Ardmore’s diabetes education class empowers participants to make positive changes

Kyle has been teaching this class for nearly two years and has worked with hundreds of people throughout his career on how to make healthy eating and lifestyle choices. It is important for people with type 2 diabetes to receive treatment. Untreated, it can lead to kidney damage, blindness, and increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

“Diabetes education is important because knowledge is power,” Kyle said. “Diabetes isn’t a disease that just goes away. It’s something you have to live with for the rest of your life. For some, it can be overwhelming, but if you know how to deal with the disease, you can Have the power to overcome the disease and lose the power it had over you.”

This class focuses on the small things people can do regardless of their insurance or financial situation. Instructors will also provide a list of resources in Southern Oklahoma that can help patients obtain insulin and other medications more affordably.

“It’s a huge financial burden for people with diabetes, especially if they don’t have adequate insurance,” Kyle says. “This can make it difficult to access life-saving medications and treatments. Many people with diabetes don’t have the money to buy the kind of food they need to eat, or lack family and support to make healthy food choices. I don’t have any help from friends.”

The program also offers monthly support groups where individuals can ask questions, talk about challenges, and encourage each other.

“Our program provides education, food and diabetes management, as well as community and social support,” Kyle said. “I encourage everyone to come. Many people may be reluctant to learn how to manage their diabetes, but this class gives people the power to make small changes that can greatly improve their lives. will give you.”

New classes begin on the first Wednesday of each month and last for four weeks. To register, email Judy Kyle. Judith.Kyle@mercy.net Or call us at 580-220-6747. Classes are held at Mercy’s Diabetes Education Center located in the former Red Cross building at 1006 Northwest Blvd, Ardmore, OK 73401.