Did you know you're at risk for developing prediabetes if you:

* Are overweight,
* Are 45 years or older,
* Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes,
* Are physically active less than 3 times a week,
* Have ever had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds,
* Are African American, Hispanic/Latino American, American Indian, or Alaska Native (some Pacific Islanders and Asian Americans are also at higher risk)

You can prevent or reverse prediabetes with simple, proven lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating healthier, and getting regular physical activity.

PREVENT T2, a class designed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, will be available free for Vermonters who may be at risk for developing Type II Diabetes. The program, delivered via Zoom, is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday February 4th* It includes one-on-one instruction and exercises. Meeting duration is 1 hour and meets three to four times per month February through May, twice monthly June to drop July, then monthly through February 2022. So, by participating for just 24 hours … a day of your life … you may save your life!

The classes are lead by Diabetes Prevention Educator and ACE-CERTIFIED Group Fitness Instructor and Health Coach Andrea Malinowski in cooperation with the Vermont Blueprint for Health and Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.

Participants may register online at www. myhealthvt.org. Participants may also contact Kathi Dockum at 802-440-4098 or kathy. dockum@svhealthcare.org with questions and to register.

The Arlington Lions are excited to spread the word about this program as Diabetes Awareness and Vision are two of our key initiatives. We know that there is a correlation between diabetes and vision issues, and as Helen Keller's "Knights of the Blind", Lions are happy to be part of spreading the word about this important program. Remember, it's free to Vermonters!