The Tribune

By NICO SCAVELLA

Tribune Staff Reporter

nscavella@tribunemedia.net

ACE Diabetes will launch its “Mission Possible: Diabetes Down” expo on Saturday, an initiative focused on the retention and management of diabetes through healthy lifestyle choices.

Following the success of ACE Diabetes’ “Get On Track”’ expos in the last couple of years, this weekend’s event will bring together a variety of experts and organisations within the community to present information on healthy living and wellness as well as diabetes-related products and services.

The free expo will take place from 10am to 2pm at the New Providence Community Centre on Blake Road.

“It isn’t about diabetes,” said Anita Cates, a registered nurse, co-founder of ACE Diabetes and organiser of the expo.

“The aim of this expo is to increase awareness about chronic illness and to help the community make better, healthier lifestyle choices. We want people to have fun as they talk with the experts and explore the wealth of resources and demonstrations.”

This year’s expo highlights include the popular cooking demonstration by Chef Jacques Carlino of Blue Sail who will be preparing healthy and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Club One will get the crowd moving with an energetic fitness and dance routine.

In the greenhouse, Field to Fork Community Farm will take those attending back to their healthier cultural roots with a workshop on backyard farming.

They will also have the opportunity to engage in “Ask The Experts” sessions with medical professionals.

Additionally, there will be many free health screenings, including mini medical eye exams for glaucoma, cataracts, and other elements of diabetic eye disease.

ACE Diabetes was established in 2012 to address the overwhelming need for diabetes awareness, prevention and management in the Bahamas. Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, stroke and heart disease, as well as severe forms of nerve diseases, dental problems, increased risk of infection, and complications in pregnancy.

Health care experts and statisticians have estimated that approximately 50 per cent of Bahamians live with diabetes or some other chronic illness.

The event is made possible with the help of generous sponsors, with special thanks to major sponsors: Diabetes Education Network; Family Medicine Centre; the Lyford Cay Club; BTC; Albany Resort; BAF Financial and Insurance (Bahamas) Ltd; and Accu-Check.