The Edgecombe County Health Department knows that people shouldn’t have to manage a chronic disease alone. That’s why once a month on a Monday night, a diabetes support group is held in the conference room of the Tarboro Health Department to educate participants on living well with Type II diabetes. The support group is made up of about 10-12 participants and led by registered nurses and diabetes educators. Most participants have been referred to the program by their doctor and have been consistently attending the program since it began.

Each meeting usually includes a heart-healthy, easy-to-make meal and recipe and an educational lesson plan. Participants learn about hypertension management, medication safety, how to read nutrition labels, and how to make healthy food choices. Some meetings feature a guest speaker from the hospital, health department, or community to present on stroke risk, high blood pressure, and other health risks related to Type II diabetes. In addition to education, the support group also provides participants an opportunity to talk about their struggles, successes and stories of living with diabetes.

The conference room is set up so everyone sits in a circle to invite discussion. The small group setting helps participants feel comfortable and allows health professionals to give each participant individual attention. Participants keep coming back for the community, encouragement, and to learn something new each time.