By Forum Staff
In honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) organized an interactive diabetes information session at All Saints Episcopal Church in Woodhaven. Addabbo said that with the event he aimed to empower individuals living with diabetes by providing them with valuable knowledge, practical tips, engaging activities and healthy giveaways, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, to lead a fulfilling life despite the challenges posed by the disease.
Addabbo expressed his enthusiasm for the event when he noted, “It’s crucial that we come together as a community to raise awareness about diabetes and support those affected by it. 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.”
According to the American Diabetes Association, an estimated 1,717,067 people in New York, accounting for 10.7 percent of the adult population, have been diagnosed with diabetes. In Queens, that percentage is higher at 11 percent. There may be an additional 456,000 individuals in New York who have diabetes, but are unaware of their condition, putting their health at significant risk.
The event started with a live cooking demonstration conducted by Cornell University Cooperative Extension-NYC. Attendees were treated to the preparation of ratatouille, a French vegetable stew. To further promote healthy choices, everyone in attendance received a sample of the dish, accompanied by refreshing fruit-infused water. The culinary experience was followed by light exercises designed to invigorate participants and promote circulation.
Danny Morales, the director of Agriculture at Queens County Farm Museum, delivered a speech on the benefits of growing one’s own vegetables. Morales encouraged attendees to take up gardening and provided them with packets of tomato seeds and coupons to visit the Queens County Farm Museum. As one of the longest continually farmed sites in New York State, the museum serves as an excellent resource for individuals interested in learning more about sustainable agriculture.
Jane Giordano, a Certified Diabetes Educator/Dietitian at St. Francis DeMatteis Center / Catholic Health, delivered remarks on the importance of portion control and dividing one’s plate to achieve a well-balanced meal. She emphasized that half of the plate should consist of vegetables and fruits, while at least half of the grain serving should be whole grains. Giordano also stressed the significance of choosing fat-free or low-fat (1 percent) milk and water over sugary beverages like soda and sports drinks.
To further demonstrate the possibilities of delicious, diabetes-friendly cuisine, a complimentary dinner was provided by Fidelis and catered by Caribbean Cabana of Richmond Hill. The menu featured a delightful array of dishes, including lentil soup, grilled chicken, grilled tilapia, string beans, broccoli, carrots, brown rice, and for dessert, plain yogurt with fresh berries and a touch of honey on the side. This scrumptious meal showed that healthy eating can be both satisfying and flavorful.
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our experts and sponsors for their invaluable contributions to this successful event,” Addabbo said. “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.”
