Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc

Georgia is in the nation’s “diabetes belt.” According to the American Diabetes Association, there are currently 1,121,495 people in Georgia who have diabetes. Of these, about 241,000 do not even know that they have it. In addition, there are 2,599,000 people in Georgia with prediabetes. It is estimated that 53,000 Georgians are diagnosed with diabetes each year (American Diabetes Association, n.d.).

The Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc., is a nonprofit organization serving the metro Atlanta area. It was formed to meet the needs of families and individuals who have diabetes or who are at risk of developing diabetes. Its mission is to bring comprehensive diabetes education to underserved communities and the uninsured.

The founder of the foundation, Lisa Graham, is a registered nurse and a certified diabetes educator. Lisa often says, “We are losing a fight with diabetes that we can win,” hence the name of the organization. Lisa truly believes if people get the education that they need and the tools to fight diabetes that “They Can Win” and live a long life with diabetes and prevent diabetes in others.

Most people who live in underserved areas or who are uninsured do not have access to comprehensive diabetes education with a certified educator. Comprehensive education is group or individualized education that meets

Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc.

the needs of the individual. We know education goes beyond a single handout and can improve overall health. We believe “When people know better, they will do better.”

The Diabetes You Can Win Foundation organizes community events to provide free blood sugar checks and health and nutrition education to the public. In past two years, the foundation has hosted an annual event in conjunction with the American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Alert Day. It encourages individuals to take a simple test to see if they are at risk for diabetes. The Diabetes You Can Win Foundation has a host of a wonderful staff and volunteers who have a heart for people with diabetes. We provide the following services to help individuals and families who are living with diabetes: Monthly support groups Free diabetes education classes Diabetes supplies Assistance with diabetes medication Eyeglasses and eye exams Speakers for community events

For more information, visit our website at

https://diabetesyoucanwin.org.

Source: www.diabetes.org/assets/pdfs/advocacy/state-fact-sheets/ georgia-state-fact-sheet.pdf