Not only does Type II Diabetes dramatically impact ones quality of life, it also has taken the lives of loved ones far too soon. The Yadkinville Rotary Club has opted to fight for the lives of its citizens by offering a grant to the Yadkin Family YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program.

Normally a $450 program, the Yadkin Y was able to offer the program at no charge, providing participants with the tremedous opportunity to reclaim their health.  What if you were at risk for one of the leading causes of death worldwide? More than 30% of adults in the U.S. are — and only 11% know. Carrie Schuster, YMCA Project Coordinator of Diabetes Prevention Program, presented this along with many other startling statistics regarding pre-diabetes at a local Rotary meeting.    

"Programs like the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program are medically evidenced to reduce the risk of Type 2 Diabetes by 58-71% for participants," says Carrie. Unfortunately, the cost to cover such programs are typically more than $400, but could be worth the investment when compared to medical expenses once the disease fully develops. Eight out of the top 10 leading causes of death in Yadkin County are chronic disease related, placing the district at 51st in North Carolina's Health outcomes due to poor quality of life. Only a little more than half the population has adequate access to exercise facilities.  Not willing to let the community increase their risk of Type 2 Diabetes, the Yadkinville Rotary decided to take action by offering a grant that would cover the cost of the Yadkin Family YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program.

Participants are now able to complete the class at no charge! Although a diagnosis of pre-diabetes can only be determined by a physician, potential participants are identified through a questionnaire consisting of various risk factors, the highest being age. Qualifying individuals may participate regardless of insurance coverage or membership status at the Yadkin Family YMCA. The Yadkin cohort that began on January 16, 2019, was the first time the program had been offered in Yadkinville. Since then, 85% of participants have remained active in the program, are completing or exceeding the minimum required amount of physical activity, and have achieved the program goal of losing five percent of their body weight. The Yadkin Family YMCA is now beginning their second year-long session with a brand new cohort, and already seeing results in the class. "Accountability is key," said one participant. "I've always done better writing down what I eat. I've already lost six pounds!" The coaching provided through the innovative lifestyle program along with the accountability given amongst peers has contributed to the positive results thus far.

Without contributions from the community and local partners, many would not have access to an evidence-based program such as the YMCA Diabetes Prevention. The Yadkinville Rotary is excited to continue partnering with the Yadkin Family YMCA to combat the rise in pre-diabetes.