| By Crystal Duckett
Central State University (CSU) Extension held its 2nd Annual Diabetes Awareness Day on Nov. 2 at the CSU-Dayton campus. The event, titled “It Takes a Village,” aimed to raise awareness about diabetes, promote wellness within the community through various engaging activities.
Dr. Jose Toledo, vice president for Research and Development and director of CSU 1890 Land-Grant Programs, inaugurated the event with a grand opening of the Community Health Care Worker Program at CSU-Dayton. He left the audience with these remarks “If you don’t take care of yourself nobody will. We need to take care of ourselves and our bodies,” he said.
“If you don’t take care of yourself nobody will. We need to take care of ourselves and our bodies.”
The day featured free health screenings, including foot checks by Dr. Tanisha Richmond of Richmond Foot and Ankle Clinic; a discussion on Diabetes Awareness and Management with pharmacist Nnodum Iheme, owner of Ziks Pharmacy, Dayton. Participants benefited from the individualized care and foot checks.
Educational sessions included diabetes wellness talks on topics such as the importance of taking your medication on time, diabetes awareness management and life after a kidney transplant. Speakers included Jackie Anderson, Nnodum Iheme and Dr. Morris Brown.
Food demonstrations led by Juliana Wickline, Extension educator, Family and Consumer Science, Southwest Region, featured the preparation of healthy snacks such as air-fried chickpeas, salad in a jar, and other simple meals, emphasizing the role of nutrition in diabetes management.
Line dancing session was well-received by everyone in attendance. The session was a standout, as the group danced to everything from Beyonce to Marvin Gaye, blending fun and fitness seamlessly.
Renita Porter, statewide program leader, Family and Consumer Sciences, concluded, “Diabetes Awareness Day is one of CSU Extension’s signature programs that draws many community members from all walks of life. This is their health and we’re here to help them take it back through practical steps of application and knowledge.”
Porter noted that the program’s success lies in engaging the community and spreading awareness about diabetes and overall wellness.
James Keys, interim program Extension associate, Family and Consumer Sciences Southern Region; added, “This day not only signifies the reach this event has had on the community for two years. It shows that exercise, a proper diet, and a proper routine is all you need. And it’s easy too.”
For more information on upcoming programs, contact Renita Porter at rporter@centralstate.edu. |
