Simple Acts that Make a Difference
There is something
comforting about knowing you have support, whether it comes from your
family, friends or an organization. While the support of friends and family
is always reassuring, your local diabetes organization gives you the
opportunity to connect with other people who have shared similar
experiences. What can your local diabetes association do for you? Here is a
list of opportunities many diabetes organizations offer.
Volunteer Opportunities
Whether you have been recently diagnosed with
diabetes or have been living with diabetes for many years, sharing your
experience with others not only benefits you, but also those around you.
Annual diabetes celebrations such as World Diabetes Day, presented by the
International Diabetes Federation (IDF), that takes place annually on
November 14 and often includes free blood glucose testing, family picnics,
marathons and fundraising events, offer great opportunities to become
involved in the diabetes community. Another way to get involved is by
supporting organizations? advocacy efforts. Diabetes organizations around
the world are continually working to improve the lives of people with
diabetes and are always looking for people who are willing to voice their
concern for public awareness and support of this chronic disease that
affects more than 135 million people worldwide. For example, the Juvenile
Diabetes Foundation's Children's Congress initiated a letter writing
campaign and recently met with the US Congress in Washington, D.C. to urge
Congressmen to increase funding for diabetes research.
Education Resource
Looking for the latest advancements in
diabetes research? Diabetes organizations are good resources for information
about diabetes in general, as well as management tips and breakthrough
technologies. The organizations are good sources of information on
scientific meetings and the latest diabetes research. Associations also act
as clearinghouses for other resources, such as support groups, chat rooms,
events and links to other diabetes websites. Check with your local
organization to inquire about subscribing to their publications or searching
them on-line.
Medical Meetings
Organizations such as the International
Diabetes Federation (IDF), European Association for the Study of Diabetes
(EASD), British Diabetes Association (BDA) and American Diabetes Association
(ADA) host scientific meetings where experts in the diabetes field gather to
present the latest advancements in diabetes research. While some
associations and their annual meetings are geared toward the medical and
scientific communities, other organizations are more consumer-friendly and
help share the news about breakthrough research presented at these meetings.
Some organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), are not
specific to diabetes, but do provide general information about the diabetes
and other health issues worldwide.
In Your Own Backyard
Diabetes associations are a great place to
look to for educational support and volunteer opportunities, and they can be
found in most countries and large cities. Whether you're looking for the
latest news on blood-glucose monitors, or are looking to join a support
group, your diabetes organization is a great place to start. Contact your
local diabetes association to find out what they offer in your area. To find
one in your community, check out the International Diabetes Federation's
website.
International Diabetes Federation (IDF)
http://www.idf.org
