SPREADING valuable information about diabetes was the core aim of the World Diabetes Day event held at Matshangule LP School in KwaDlangezwa on Sunday.
Spearheaded by the Linzwa Foundation and supported by Old Mutual, the edutainment community initiative aimed at creating awareness about the disease, as well as encouraging healthy living.
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‘My grandfather suffered from diabetes, and went blind as a result. He later died from the disease. That’s when it became personal to me. I work with many pensioners and young children, and saw it necessary to have an event that would shed light on the disease because many don’t understand it,’ said Lindiwe Dube of Linzwa Foundation.
Various speakers shared the podium and unpacked their knowledge about the disease.
Medical practitioner Dr Philip Gama shared information about the disease, while Dr Ntombi Linda from the University of Zululand (Unizulu) nursing department gave tips on how to live after being diagnosed with diabetes.
Professor Unathi Kolanisi from the Unizulu consumer science department encouraged the community to plant vegetable gardens, and shared tips on healthy foods and living.
Little Miss South Africa Danielle Burgess spoke about diabetes among children, while Giuliana Wright handed over blue ribbons as part of the commemoration.
Health professionals from Ikhasa Ambulance were on site, and gave community members the chance to test for diabetes.
There was delicious food’ and lots of fish was donated by Gert le Roux from the Zululand Yacht Club.
After the formalities, entertainers such as Shakes Ngema, Isiko Likazulu, Linzwa Soup Kitchen and actor Mthandeni Mbambo closed off the event in style.
