Nov. 14, 2023 By Anthony Medina
In recognition of National Diabetes Awareness Month this year, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. organized a diabetes information session inside the All Saints Episcopal Church in Woodhaven, on Wednesday, Nov. 8.
The info session was aimed at empowering people living with diabetes and informing them on the various methods of living with the health condition. Participants also engaged in a healthy food dinner, with an assortment of fresh food and produce to take home.
According to information shared by the American Diabetes Association, an estimated 1,717,067 people in New York, accounting for 10.7% of the adult population, have been diagnosed with diabetes.
“It’s crucial that we come together as a community to raise awareness about diabetes and support those affected by it,” said Addabbo. “By hosting this interactive session, we hope to equip individuals with the tools they need to manage their condition effectively and live healthy, vibrant lives.”
Senator Addabbo joins co-sponsor QARI who distributed bags of fresh produce. Photo courtesy the office of Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr.
Fidelis Care and Quincy Asian Resources, Inc., sponsored the information session, alongside key supporters of the event, including parishioners of the All Saints Episcopal Church, the Cornell University Cooperative Extension-NYC, St. Francis Hospital / Catholic Health, the Queens County Farm Museum, and Caribbean Cabana.
A live-cooking demonstration with a serving of the dish ratatouille, a French vegetable stew, served an example of the healthy food options that could be easily accessible to those living with diabetes.
The Queens County Farm Museum also provided attendees with packets of tomato seeds and coupons to the farm, as a way to further incentivize others to consider growing vegetables in their own home. Danny Morales, the director of agriculture at the Queens County Farm, spoke of the importance of locally grown produce.
Heathy eating being only half of the battle, Jane Giordano, a certified Diabetes Educator/Dietitian at St. Francis DeMatteis Center/Catholic Health, informed the audience on the importance of portion control. She emphasized how using a balance of fruits, vegetables and whole grains could significantly help maintain a person’s health.
Senator Addabbo thanks event sponsor Fidelis and their mascot the Fidelisaurus. Photo courtesy the office of Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr.
To top it all off, a full complimentary dinner with diabetes-friendly cuisine was provided by Fidelis and catered by the Caribbean Cabana of Richmond Hill. The dinner represented how healthy eating can be both satisfying and flavorful with grilled chicken, brown rice and a yogurt parfait for dessert.
Attendees were also surprised by a visit from Fidelis’ mascot, the Fidelasaurus, and received a small plush of Fidelasaurus. The QARI (Quincy Asian Resources, Inc.) also provided attendees with fresh bags of produce to take home at the end of the evening.
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our experts and sponsors for their invaluable contributions to this successful event,” said Addabbo. “Together, we have taken a significant step forward in educating and empowering individuals affected by diabetes. Let us continue working together to raise awareness, support one another and foster a healthier community.”