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Defeat Diabetes Foundation

Defeat Diabetes
Foundation
150 153rd Ave,
Suite 300
Madeira Beach, FL 33708

Nurse Cartoonist Lightens Apprehensions About Diabetes
Through an Informative Book of Multicultural Cartoons

San Francisco, CA -- When nurse, Certified Diabetes Educator and internationally published cartoonist Theresa Garnero noticed people with diabetes struggling with the fear and misconceptions about diabetes, she knew there was a way to ease their apprehension. Relying on many of her talents, she has authored and illustrated an educational diabetes book of cartoons filled with a rich cast of multicultural characters -- just like people with diabetes. The 60 page book “DIABETease: a lighter look at the serious subject of diabetes,” presents tips on how to control the disease throughout the 50 color cartoons and resource/definition lists, in an easy-to-read, humorous and validating format. A ladybug mascot, named LadyBetes, narrates the book in an engaging way, sure to appeal to adults and children alike.

How can one nurse make a difference in an epidemic? “I use cartoons in a community-based diabetes program on the central coast of California and found it to be helpful and less daunting of an approach. My hope is to inspire diabetes self-management through cartooning as a science-based art form, beyond its local success, and give money to diabetes related organizations. It’s a win-win situation,” said Garnero.

What’s funny about diabetes? Garnero explains, “Nothing. Rather, it is the human condition that lends itself to humorous situations. People tend to think diabetes complications are just a matter of time. That is not true! Since less than half of people with diabetes ever receive education about how it can be controlled, it’s not surprising to hear the dark side emphasized. I have found diabetes cartoons to be a much needed sigh of relief.”

The book has received early acclaim from notable diabetes community members, including Dr. Richard Rubin, PhD, CDE, associate professor of medicine and pediatrics, The Johns Hopkins University of Medicine; and author of several books on diabetes who says, “A light look at diabetes. Especially recommended for those recently diagnosed.” And Eliana Frank, who has type 1 diabetes and leads a type 1 support group, “I find humor to be the missing piece in accepting one’s diabetes. This amusing book fills that void.”

There are plenty of books emphasizing the seriousness of diabetes. This innovative book hopes to invite readers to learn through accentuating the positive and have a little fun.

The retail cost is $16.99 softbound and $34.95 hard cover. Ms. Garnero donates half of her profits to diabetes related organizations. The book is available directly from Theresa’s website at www.tgarnero.com or through a variety of booksellers and book distributors including Alibris, Amazon, Baker and Taylor, Borders, and Booksurge.