ACB Focus: Health and Wellness
American Council of the Blind, Inc.

20250709 1430 Meal Planning for a Healthy Life with Diabetes

Originally Broadcasted July 9, 2025, on ACB Media 2

July 10, 2025

20250709 1430 Meal Planning for a Healthy Life with Diabetes Originally Broadcasted July 9, 2025, on ACB Media 2

Three dietitians and diabetes educators from Pennsylvania Hospital joined us and shared ideas for planning tasty, fun, and interesting meals following eating recommendations for health with diabetes. Deciding what to eat for your meals and snacks every day is certainly a daunting experience and even more, so, when you're stopping to think about carbohydrates, proteins, fats, nutrition labels, etc. Participants joined us to help pick up some new tips to help make everyday meal planning easier and enjoyable. There was time for attendees to share their own suggestions and ask any questions about diabetes.

Facilitator: Patricia Maddix, ACBDA Board Member, Vancouver, WA

Presenters: Abigail Chesterson, MPH, RD, LDN, CDCES, Director, Diabetes Education Center, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA and Carolyn Ramondo RD, LDN, CDCES, CNSC, Clinical Dietitian Specialist, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA.

20250709 1300 ACBDA Presents Advocating for Mental Health Techniques in Action

Originally Broadcasted July 9, 2025, on ACB Media 3

July 10, 2025

20250709 1300 ACBDA Presents Advocating for Mental Health Techniques in Action Originally Broadcasted July 9, 2025, on ACB Media 3

Participants joined Emily Durfey, MSW, LSW and Stephanie Ash, MSW, LSW, Esq. as they reviewed techniques for how people with diabetes can advocate for their mental health! We reviewed ways to identify and combat stigma and stereotypes, learn techniques to successfully engage in self-advocacy with family, friends, and providers and discuss signs of diabetes distress/burnout and how to seek help. Participants had an opportunity to put learned techniques into action through guided role-plays during the last half of the session and left feeling empowered to take action to advocate for their mental health!

Facilitator: Randy Knapp, Board Member, ACBDA, Rockville, MD.

Presenters: Stephanie L. Ash, MSW, LSW, Social Worker, Endocrinology, Cleveland, OH and Emily Durfey, MSW, LSW, Social Worker, Endocrinology, Cleveland, OH.

20250708 1430 Accessibility of Diabetes Tools

Originally Broadcasted July 8, 2025, on ACB Media 3

July 8, 2025

20250708 1430 Accessibility of Diabetes Tools Originally Broadcasted July 8, 2025, on ACB Media 3 This session explored the latest advancements in diabetes management tools designed with accessibility in mind for individuals who are blind or have low vision. We discussed the features and benefits of continuous glucose monitors (CGMS) such as the prescription-based Freestyle Libre 3+ and Dexcom 7. We also talked about the over-the-counter options like the Dexcom Stelo, Abbott Lingo, and Abbott Freestyle Rio. as well as InPen and the Prodigy Meter, highlighting their compatibility with various accessibility needs. Additionally, the session also covered accessible insulin pumps and how they are transforming diabetes care for individuals who are blind or low vision, focusing on the tools' usability, features, and the support they provide in managing diabetes independently.

20250708 1300 Whats Late and Great in the Diabetes Management Space for 2025

Originally Broadcasted July 8, 2025, on ACB Media 3

July 8, 2025

20250708 1300 Whats Late and Great in the Diabetes Management Space for 2025 Originally Broadcasted July 8, 2025, on ACB Media 3 Discussion of the new standards of care for diabetes for 2025. This session focused on updates in diabetes care and management. We highlighted new drugs to market and delved into navigating the ongoing shortages of GLP1 medications. Updates were provided on continuous glucose monitor technology, including the Stelo Glucose Biosensor system by Dexcom, available Over the counter, without a prescription, Insulin pumps and automated insulin delivery system advances were also presented. There was be ample time for open discussion and questions and answers. Facilitator: Tom Tobin, ACBDA Member, Cleveland, OH Presenters: Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, BC-ADM, CDCES, FADCES, FCCP, Endocrine Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Co-Director, Endocrine Disorders in Pregnancy, Cleveland Clinic Endocrinology and Metabolism Institute, Cleveland, OH and James Montgomery, PharmD, BCACP, Primary Care Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Cleveland Clinic - Solon Family Health Center, Cleveland, OH

20250706 1730 Discovering the Five Love Languages Connecting Through Care

Originally Broadcasted July 6, 2025, on ACB Media 2

July 6, 2025

20250706 1730 Discovering the Five Love Languages Connecting Through Care Originally Broadcasted July 6, 2025, on ACB Media 2 Did you know that everyone has a Love Language, the way they best give and receive love? Whether in friendships, family, professional or personal relationships understanding the Five Love Languages can transform how we connect with those around us. Participants joined us for an engaging and interactive event where we explored the Five Love Languages: Affirmation, Acts of Service, Quality Time, Physical Touch, and Gifts. We broke down what each Love Language means, how they show up in daily life, and how simply learning someone's Love Language can help you build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Plus, we heard from individuals who shared how their Love Languages help to shape the way they connect with others. Sponsored by: ACB Next Generation Presenters: Terrilynn Higashi, Ewa Beach HI and Amanda Selm, Louisville KY.

20250706 1030 The Color of Resilience A Talk and Painting Demonstration with John

Originally Broadcasted July 6, 2025, on ACB Media 3

July 6, 2025

20250706 1030 The Color of Resilience A Talk and Painting Demonstration with John Originally Broadcasted July 6, 2025, on ACB Media 3 Participants joined internationally acclaimed blind artist John Bramblitt for an inspiring session where he shared the remarkable story of his career. Hear how he overcame the loss of his sight to become a celebrated muralist, speaker, and author. Through heartfelt storytelling and personal insights, he explored themes of creativity, resilience, and inclusion. The session also featured a live painting demonstration, offering a unique look into John's innovative techniques. Don't miss the opportunity to ask questions during the Q and A at the end.

20250705 1430 Shifting Mental Health Culture Through Storytelling

Originally Broadcasted July 5, 2025, on ACB Media 3

July 6, 2025

20250705 1430 Shifting Mental Health Culture Through Storytelling Originally Broadcasted July 5, 2025, on ACB Media 3 Mental health affects us all. Yet stigma, shame and fear of judgement are major contributors to the high rate of mental illness among minority populations. This session explored how storytelling can make a difference. Co-sponsored by: ACB Mental Health and Wellness Committee and  Multicultural Affairs Committee

20250628 1300 When the Road Gets Rough

June 28, 2025

20250628 1300 When the Road Gets Rough Originally Broadcasted June 28, 2025, on ACB Media 5 There are often challenges on the road to mental health. This session featured three presenters who shared their experience, strength and hope. Sponsored by: ACB Mental Health and Wellness Committee

20250628 1300 Together We Thrive Families Embracing Vision Challenged Members

Originally Broadcasted June 28, 2025, on ACB Media 3

June 28, 2025

20250628 1300 Together We Thrive Families Embracing Vision Challenged Members Originally Broadcasted June 28, 2025, on ACB Media 3 Participants joined us for an inspiring and heartfelt program that highlighted the power of family resilience, and support in the face of vision-related challenges. This session featured the unique journeys of three families who have navigated life with vision loss and emerged stronger together. The Carpenter Family shared how they rally around their mom and wife, offering steadfast support and love through every challenge. The Nipper Family explored a mother's role in empowering her daughter's independence, leadership aspirations, and personal growth. The Allen Family discussed how they balance life with two daughters, challenging preconceptions, fostering advocacy skills and navigating their community with strength and grace. Each story reflects a different perspective, but all speak to the importance of family, understanding and perseverance. This event was especially for families of individuals experiencing vision loss and anyone seeking encouragement, connection, and hope. Sponsored by: ACB Next Generation Speakers: The Carpenter Family - Moe, Robert, and their boys, West Des Moines, Iowa, The Nipper Family - Cecily and her mom, and The Allen Family - Lauren, Derek, and their girls, Louisville, KY Facilitators: Megan Meigs, San Leandro, CA and Amanda Selm, Louisville, KY

20250628 1130 Understanding Trauma During Changing Times

Originally Broadcasted June 28, 2025, on ACB Media 5

June 28, 2025

20250628 1130 Understanding Trauma During Changing Times Originally Broadcasted June 28, 2025, on ACB Media 5 There are all kinds of trauma. In this session, we explored some of the types of trauma and suggested ways to cope. Sponsored by: ACB Mental Health and Wellness Committee