The Men’s Health Fair organized by the St Lucia Diabetic and Hypertensive Association on Saturday at the Derek Walcott Square has been hailed a success.

Executive Director, George Eugene, says that the Association was pleased with the turnout of men especially in light of the frequent downpours which threatened the cancellation of the event. Scores of men and curious onlookers seized the opportunity to check their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol while others had eye examinations, sampled healthy foods and even participated in the exercise displays conducted by fitness instructor, Pett Norville.

Saturday was observed as “World Diabetes Day” and the Association spared no effort in driving home the reality that Diabetes is the number one killer of especially men in the region. Brochures, leaflets and a new Ex Tempo jingle all formed part of the education efforts.

In keeping with its mandate to provide quality care to Diabetics, the Association also made a presentation of new crutches to George Lovence, a 10 year client of the Association who was diagnosed 15 years ago at age 29. The former electrical apprentice had his leg amputated just below the knee at the tender age of 34 and expressed his willingness to assist with the education campaign, having lost his older brother and father to Diabetes.

Founder of the children’s charitable organization “TOCO” (They Often Cry Outreach) and International Reggae Sensation, Taj Weekes, expressed his delight with the efforts of the Association and urged more St Lucians to join in the fight against diabetes.

“This is serious. We are losing so many so young. With children now being diagnosed with diabetes the task is very clear. We have to take control of our lives and develop a more conscious and positive attitude towards health and health care. We owe it to ourselves and our youth.”

Weekes is on island with a video production team who volunteered their services to compile a documentary on Diabetes in St Lucia. TOCO has also made available, over 2000 testers for free distribution.

Meanwhile the President of the St Lucia Diabetic and Hypertensive Association, Cuthbert
St Juste, pledged continued support for the Diabetes education campaign and urged St Lucians to render assistance to the Association.

St Juste says that despite limited financial and human resources, the Association continues to provide many critical services to Diabetics and others. He was full of praise for the many agencies and corporate entities who partnered with the Association to make the Men’s Health Fair a reality. The Association will host its annual “Walk for Diabetes” event on November 29 as activities for Diabetes Month come to a close.