Let’s Talk Diabetes returns to New Minas Nov. 12 with tools, tips, and community connection

The 5th annual Let’s Talk Diabetes event returns to New Minas in November and will feature a variety of topics for those living with the disease and for their support networks.

People living with diabetes and their support networks are invited to come together for the 5th annual Let’s Talk Diabetes event on Wednesday, Nov. 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lynn Spencer Hall, Louis Millett Community Complex in New Minas.

Hosted by the Nova Scotia Health diabetes centres in the Annapolis/Kings area, the free event on Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lynn Spencer Hall in the Louis Millett Community Complex offers practical tips, the latest information on diabetes care, and a chance to connect with others living with the condition.

“We try to hold the event as close to World Diabetes Day as possible,” said Anne McLaughlin, health services lead for Nova Scotia Health’s Western Zone. “It’s a great opportunity to reach the public with up to date, hands-on information and connect people to the programs and services available in their own community.”

This year’s lineup includes sessions on new diabetes technology and sensors, sleep, goal-setting, plant-based eating, stress management, and diabetes self-management, as well as overviews of other Nova Scotia Health programs such as smoking cessation, HealthyNS, and the Need a Family Practice Registry.

Heather Angell, a dietitian with the diabetes centre at Valley Regional Hospital, explained the wide variety of topics is intentional. “We want there to be something for everyone,” she said. “Living with diabetes affects more than the person who has it. It can be really meaningful for family members or caregivers to attend too. They often leave with a deeper understanding of what their loved one is experiencing and how to offer support.”

Jacklynn Humphrey, operations consultant with Primary Health Care Practice Support, has presented in previous years on the topic of behaviour change and will be speaking again at this year’s event. Her presentation focuses on how people can turn the health information they receive into realistic, lasting change that fits their lives.

“Change is hard and that’s normal,” said Humphrey. “Self-management isn’t about being perfect, it’s about finding small, meaningful changes that fit within your life and values. That means having honest conversations with your provider about what’s realistic for you, what you can actually do and sustain. This approach helps you take ownership of your health and make changes that last, ultimately getting the most out of your health care appointments.”

For Myrna Blenkhorn, who has lived with Type 2 diabetes for more than a decade, that message rings true. She has attended Let’s Talk Diabetes three times and plans to attend again this year.

“You think you know everything, but there’s always something new to learn every year,” she said. “And it’s good to meet others who really understand what living with diabetes is like.”

Blenkhorn said it’s not just the information that makes the event worthwhile, but the conversations that happen around it. “You get to talk with other people about how they’re managing things, what’s working for them or what’s been hard,” she said. “It helps you realize you’re not the only one dealing with it. Everyone has their own struggles, and you can learn from each other.”

She added that the event can also help families and caregivers gain perspective. “Sometimes loved ones can be a bit hard on you without meaning to,” she said. “When they hear from others or from the speakers about how challenging diabetes can be, it helps them understand what you’re dealing with.”

“Each year, people tell us they leave feeling more supported and informed,” Angell said. “That’s exactly what we hope for.” 

For more information about the Let’s Talk Diabetes event, contact the diabetes centre at (902) 679-1849.

Photo of Jacklynn Humphrey of Nova Scotia Health presenting at a previous Let’s Talk Diabetes event in New Minas, discussing resources for people living with diabetes and their support networks.