The Canadian Diabetes Association has introduced a new initiative called D-Chat - a free and confidential telephone-based personal mentoring program for those newly-diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in British Columbia and Yukon.
The goal of the program is to empower and guide participants with type 2 diabetes toward a path of healthy living by having them regularly connect with a peer mentor.
D-Chat matches individuals newlydiagnosed with type 2 diabetes with a volunteer mentor who is also living with type 2 diabetes for helpful casual one-onone phone chats over a period of six weeks. Once an individual registers, a trained volunteer will phone them to answer their questions, offer information about local resources and share experiences. D-Chat volunteers do not provide medical advice, instead they share their personal experiences and support on how best to navigate the health-care system.
David DeVore, who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2001 and is a peer mentor for D-Chat, says diabetes care programs helped him manage his diabetes within the first year of his diagnosis. With support, David was able to use diet and physical activity to help control his weight, blood glucose levels, hypertension and high cholesterol.
"It is easy enough to find a list of what we should be doing, but often those recommendations require major changes from a lifetime of existing eating and exercise habits," said DeVore. "Gaining personal perspectives from others who are also living with the disease is crucial - you can talk about challenges, frustrations and successes. Making significant lifestyle changes can be difficult. Strategies in managing type 2 diabetes that have worked for others can be really valuable."
Those recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can register by phone at 1-800-BANTING (226-8464) or by email at dchat@diabetes.ca. Callers will be asked to complete a questionnaire when they register and are then matched to a volunteer peer mentor. More information is available at diabetes.ca/dchat.