Diabetes Action Network
Blind diabetics and those losing vision can continue to be independent. The blind can and do accurately draw up insulin, monitor blood glucose levels, etc. “Limitations” are usually self-imposed, and often all that is needed to overcome negative thinking is simply to know where to go for information. Some equipment (i.e. audio output devices) has been adapted for the blind. By using alternative techniques and products, the blind can control their diabetes as efficiently as do their sighted peers.
The Diabetes Action Network, a division of the National Federation of the Blind, is a support and information network for all diabetics, especially those who are blind or losing vision. Many of our members have experienced ramifications of diabetes such as blindness, amputation, nerve damage, heart problems, kidney disease, etc. Others have experienced no chronic complications, but want to utilize our services, learn more about diabetes, and be part of a caring support group. In addition to reaching out to fellow diabetics who may be finding it difficult to cope with problems that accompany diabetes, we provide support and information to interested persons. Please join our list serv. We have discussions covering all aspects of living with diabetes.
The principal medium of our support network is our free quarterly news magazine, Voice of the Diabetic. Each issue contains personal, candid stories written by diabetics, friends, health care professionals and others who share experiences and expertise on diabetes and its complications. Emphasizing the importance of good diabetes control, proper diet, and independence, this upbeat outreach publication shows diabetics that they have options regardless of the side effects of diabetes. Regular features include a medical Q and A column, a “Recipe Corner,” and a resource column of aids and appliances. For further information, to subscribe and/or become a member of the Diabetes Action Network, to submit an article, to order a sample copy of the Voice (in print, 4-track cassette, or both formats), please contact: Voice of the Diabetic at the address below or Subscribe Online.
Members of the Diabetes Action Network enjoy priority services and unique benefits such as: free subscription to the Voice plus access to other publications, automatic access to committees covering all aspects of diabetes, free counseling concerning all facets of blindness and diabetes as well as access to diabetics who have experienced complications. Members of the Diabetes Action Network also automatically become members-at-large of the National Federation of the Blind.
Upcoming Events
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NFB DAN Mission
The NFB Diabetes Action Network educates, empowers, and inspires people living with diabetes and its complications. We share the Federation’s “can-do” philosophy, through Voice of the Diabetic magazine, volunteer peer support, and advocacy for accessible diabetes technology. Together, we challenge one another to live our best and fullest lives.
About the NFB Diabetes Action Network
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults. That’s why the National Federation of the Blind, the largest and most influential membership organization of blind people in the United States, established the NFB Diabetes Action Network (NFB DAN) 22 years ago. The NFB DAN improves lives through advocacy, education, research, technology development, and programs encouraging independence and self-confidence.
Originally, the goal of NFB DAN was simple: to educate, empower and inspire blind and visually impaired people with diabetes to manage their condition independently and confidently and to advocate for accessible diabetes products. Thousands of NFB DAN members manage multiple complications, not just vision loss, so our mission has also expanded to include people with all kinds of diabetic complications. NFB DAN volunteers share their experiences and encouragement with those facing similar complications, such as kidney failure, amputation, and neuropathy.
The NFB DAN also publishes Voice of the Diabetic, the nation’s only magazine targeted to diabetics experiencing complications. The Voice, published quarterly, is all about making diabetes less complicated, and helps readers live their best and fullest lives. Created by diabetics, for diabetics, Voice of the Diabetic has a circulation of more than 330,000, and covers topics that other diabetes media do not address. The Voice answers the most pressing questions concerning complications, including: How can I read my blood glucose meter if I cannot see? How can I coordinate the dietary restrictions of dialysis and diabetes? How can I exercise after losing a foot? Voice of the Diabetic also features moving personal stories of peers thriving despite complications.
For more information please contact our Board members:
Ed Bryant, President
1212 London Drive
Columbia, Missouri 65203
Phone: (573) 875-8911
E-mail: ebryant@socket.net
Please join the Diabetes Action Network listserv. We have discussions covering all aspects of living with diabetes.
NFB DAN is a proud partner of the State of Diabetes Complications in America. State of Diabetes Complications in America press release (Word doc).
