April 2020, ISSUE 138
Dear DiabetesSister,

I hope that you are staying safe and healthy during this unprecedented time affecting the globe. COVID-19 has affected our lives unlike any other challenge we have encountered. Many of us have stocked up on food and other basic necessities to carry us through as we follow recommendations to stay home.

As people with diabetes, we have more layers to approach during this crisis. Do we have enough of our medications? Supplies? Are we equipped in case we develop a cold or the flu and are unable to see our healthcare team? How do we connect with our peers when we are confined to our homes?

At DiabetesSisters, we took measures in early March to move our in-person PODS Meetups to a virtual platform, so we could continue to meet with our peers for support and education. If you are interested in participating in one of these online meetups, please check our calendar below and submit our Interest Form found here.

We have also compiled a resource page to answer your questions about insulin and medication availability (good news - there is no shortage), programs to help in paying for medications (including glucagon for emergencies), and tips on ways to cope during this time. We've even shared a letter you can customize with your diabetes regimen should you need to go to the hospital. I urge you to check out the page - we will continuously update it with information as we receive it.

Despite this uncertain time, we will continue to provide support and education to our community. Our staff is safe and healthy, practicing self-care, but also ensuring we share valuable information and tips, not only on COVID-19 but also on living well with diabetes.

That being said, please take a look at our newsletter this month. We have a great array of articles, including one for our Spanish-speaking audience. During this time, we continue to be committed to you.

Until next month, stay safe, stay home, and reach out to us if we can provide our services.

In Sisterhood,
Anna
Anna Norton, MS, CEO
26 Triumphant (NOT Perfect!) Years THRIVING with Diabetes
We've gathered trusted resources and valuable tips to help you navigate these trying times. Check back often for the latest updates and additions.

Words can have a significant impact on how others feel - and how we feel about ourselves. Our Experts explain why our #LanguageMatters and how to avoid causing stigma.
The words used to describe us and our diabetes are important to our physical, mental, and emotional health. Language that is positive, inclusive, empowering, respectful, and focuses on strengths helps reduce stigma. To learn more, download our Spanish brochure, El Estigma De La Diabetes, from our Library.
Also available in English.

Why does language matter? This video by Mytonomy explains it all and features some of our favorite educators and friends from the diabetes community.

Given the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns about risks and ability to access medications, Sanofi wants to reassure people living with diabetes that they remain committed to offering innovative solutions to provide affordable access to medicines.


*Sanofi is a DiabetesSisters 2020 National Strategic Partner.
DiabetesSisters helps connect women living with diabetes through peer support, education, and advocacy that improves their health and their quality of life. Since 2008, your donations have allowed us to grow our programs and services!

Many of us are turning to online shopping now more than ever. Did you know that you can still support us when you shop on Amazon?

Shop using our AmazonSmile link, and a portion of your sales will benefit DiabetesSisters.

A Diabetes Care and Education Specialist can make managing your diabetes easier. They work with you to develop a plan to stay healthy and give you the tools and ongoing support to make that plan a regular part of your life.

Myabetic products represent the beauty of the diabetes community. Bags, cases, cooling pouches, and accessories so beautiful, no one will know they're designed for diabetes. Use promo code DSISTERS for 15% off your purchase.

Our in-person PODS Meetups have been suspended through 5/31.
Many of our groups, including those listed below, are staying connected
by holding online or conference call meetings.
Richmond, VA
April 5, 1:00 pm

Ventura County/San Fernando Valley, CA
April 6, 6:30 pm

South Riding /
Chantilly, VA
April 6, 7:00 pm

Providence, RI
April 7, 7:00 pm
Clifton Park, NY
April 11, 10:00 am

Greater Phoenix, AZ
April 12, 3:00 pm

Davie, FL
April 15, 6:00 pm

Bridgewater, NJ
April 15, 7:00 pm
Virtual / Online
April 16, 8:00 pm EST

Reno, NV
April 21, 6:30 pm

Princeton, NJ
April 22, 7:00 pm

Minneapolis / St Paul, MN
April 23, 6:30 pm