SHELTON, WA – Living with Type 1 diabetes doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. The Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics Diabetes Wellness Center (DWC) is excited to announce the start of a new diabetes support group focused specifically on people living with Type 1 diabetes. This support group is designed to alleviate the special concerns, stress and uncertainty that persons with T1 diabetes live with on a daily basis. 

“Our goal is to provide support in a group setting to help participants make changes in lifestyle, find new support systems, learn about new technology and research and learn from the insight and experience of others as well as many other benefits,” said Diabetes Program Coordinator Debbie McGinnis. “Type 1 diabetes affects many people.  The DWC has worked directly with over 70 persons with diabetes in the past few years and referrals are growing.”

The first class will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 11, in the Ellinor Room of Mason General Hospital. Support groups will continue to be held at the same time on the second Wednesday of each month. Carmen Eucker, RN BSN CDE, will be leading the group. Eucker has more than 20 year of diabetes education experience as well as a high level of experience in technologies such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring.  

The Type 1 diabetes support groups will be held in addition to the general diabetes support groups each month in Shelton and Allyn. The general diabetes support groups are generally held the third Thursday of the month in Shelton and the fourth Thursday of the month in Allyn, with the exception of holidays. Call (360) 427-7332 for more information.  

MGH&FC is certified by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and is a licensed and accredited acute care hospital with a level four emergency trauma designation. There are more than 100 physicians on staff in 19 specialties. MGH&FC now offers 3D Mammography Services and Virtual Care 24/7.  For more information on 3D mammograms, Virtual Care or to find a health care provider, visit www.MasonGeneral.com.