One of Dr. Frankel’s missions is educate his patients that a healthy mouth promotes a healthy body. Research suggests that there is a strong relationship between gum disease and such problems as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. “For the nearly 30 million Americans who have diabetes, many may be surprised to learn about the unexpected complications associated with this condition,” including an increased prevalence “of gum disease among those with diabetes” (American Diabetes Association). In order to ensure that all patients are aware of these problems, Frankel Dentistry provides expert patient education, which creates awareness of small problems before they become bigger, more complicated issues.
But one Frankel patient has taken diabetes education to a new avenue. Jimmy Hicks has teamed together with Flower Hospital and the Greater Toledo YMCAs to educate local Toledoans about diabetes for FREE!
Classes run 1 hour a week for 8 weeks. During this time volunteer physicians, certified diabetes educators, motivational speakers, dietitians, and more help educate attendees learn to control their blood sugar and regulate their diabetes.
According to Jimmy, ” Diabetes is a huge problem in our community. With proper education people can control their blood sugar.” However, what Jimmy noticed is that many people don’t have the time or the money to get the proper education. That is what inspired to do something. Thus the creation of a problem that is free and not a big commitment while still allowing the proper education to be spread.
Every 8 weeks the program restarts at a different YMCA. Recently, an 8 week class finished at the JCC. On Tuesday, September 2nd, the next session will begin at the South YMCA at the Morse Center. Following that session, the program will move to the Oregon YMCA.
A typical class has 12-15 participants, who are all excited to learn how to manage their diabetes. Additionally, Jimmy wanted to be sure that people understood that nothing is being sold to the participants. ” This program simply gives people the recipe of success,” said Jimmy.
There is one added bonus. Participants who complete 6 out of the 8 classes receive a 3 month MAX membership to the YMCA, which can be used at any YMCA in the country.
In order to register for the Free Diabetes Classes that begin September 2nd at the South YMCA at the Morse Center, please obtain a physicians referral and call Susan Ruff at 419-725-7844.
“Managing your diabetes and taking it seriously are keys to success,” said Jimmy. Additionally, don’t forget that the relationship between serious gum disease and diabetes is a two-way street. “Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes” (American Diabetes Association). Be educated. Be aware.
