No-cost Diabetes and Hypertension workshops start online in April

submitted by National Kidney Foundation of Michigan

Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) are two serious chronic diseases. They also are the two major causes of kidney disease. The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) provides workshops that help people to manage these diseases and live healthier. Consider taking an upcoming virtual workshop, Diabetes Personal Action Toward Health (DPATH), or High Blood Pressure Control. Offered at no cost to participants, the multi-week workshops feature facilitators working with small groups to explore skills and tools that help people with chronic disease to improve the quality of their lives. Session topics include controlling symptoms, decreasing stress, advocating for yourself, communicating with health providers, and more. The workshops are open to all residents in Michigan (and their caregivers) with access to a computer, tablet or smartphone.

High Blood Pressure Control
Thursdays, 6 – 7:30pm
Sessions 1-8: April 20 to June 8
New participants will receive a blood pressure monitor and can join through Thursday, April 27.
To register for this workshop, visit www.nkfm.org/HBPC or call 800-482-1455.

Diabetes PATH
Mondays, 1 – 3pm
Information Session – April 3, 2023
Sessions 1-6: April 10 to May 15
New participants can join through Monday, April 17, 2023.

To register for this workshop, visit http://classes.beaumont.org or www.nkfm.org/diabetesPATH or call 800-633-7377.

To find additional PATH programs, visit nkfm.org/PATH or mihealthyprograms.org.

Why is the NKFM interested in helping people with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure? Diabetes and hypertension are two major causes of kidney disease, and 33% of Michigan adults, or one in three, are at risk for kidney disease. If you have kidney disease, you also have a higher risk for severe COVID-19 complications. The NKFM is raising awareness about kidney disease and working hard to change these numbers. Take our one-minute Kidney Risk Quiz today to find out if you are part of the 33% and what you can do about it.

The mission of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan is to prevent kidney disease and improve the quality of life for those living with it. With more than a million people in Michigan affected by kidney disease, the NKFM works to provide life-changing programs and services across the state. Each year, Charity Navigator — the nation’s leading nonprofit evaluator — has recognized the NKFM with its highest rating of 4 stars for success in sound fiscal management. nkfm.org

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.