ABCs of Diabetes

The ABCs of Diabetes kicks off at the East 38th Street Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library on Thursday, November 5, and it's a series, not a one-off. The in-person sessions run on November 5, 12, and 19, from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM each day, at 5420 East 38th Street. If those dates don't work, there's an online version on December 2, 9, and 16, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

The program is run by the Marion County Public Health Department's Chronic Disease Department and is accredited by the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, so it follows the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support. It's led by nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, and social workers, and it covers the basics: what diabetes is, the medications used to manage it, the role of nutrition, and how to monitor blood sugar. There's also a section on preventing complications, with a particular emphasis on regular eye exams, kidney screenings, and vaccinations, plus a look at available community resources.

It's open to anyone with diabetes or pre-diabetes, and you're welcome to bring along a spouse, family members, or friends. Registration is required, and the organizers encourage you to attend every session rather than just dropping in for one. The whole thing is free, and the in-person classes run Thursday afternoons at the East 38th Street Branch, November 5, 12, and 19, from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.