Mobile Diabetes Program
The mission of the Seabird Mobile Diabetes Program is to provide diabetes care, including vision and blood screening, which will prevent long term complications of Diabetes and improve the quality of life for on-reserve First Nations People. We operate in Southern British Columbia and Fraser Valley, traveling to remote First Nations reserves doing blood work screening, retinal screening, and diabetes education outreach.
Providing Mobile Diabetes Care in First Nation Communities
The Seabird Mobile Diabetes Program is dedicated to preventing complications and improving quality of life for First Nations people living with diabetes. Our team travels to remote reserves in Southern BC and the Fraser Valley to provide:
- Blood glucose screening
- Retinal eye exams
- Diabetes education outreach
By bringing these vital services into communities, we aim to increase access, awareness, and self-management. Our mission is empowering those we serve through personalized care. Let us know how we can support your health journey.
Managing Diabetes with Comprehensive, Culturally-Aware Care
Our team provides complete diabetes care tailored to each patient’s cultural background and individual needs. Led by doctors, our group includes registered nurses, community educators, and nutrition and fitness experts – all certified diabetes educators.
We take a comprehensive approach to diabetes management. Through thorough assessment and education, we empower patients to actively monitor their condition and achieve optimal health. Our friendly, welcoming environment facilitates open communication for developing customized treatment plans.
No matter your background, our culturally-sensitive team works with you as an individual. We know every person requires unique support in managing this chronic disease. Together, we can reduce risks and improve your quality of life.
Find out when we will be in your community!
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetes
Diabetes arises when the body cannot properly produce or utilize the hormone insulin. Insulin helps convert food into energy. The three main types include:
- Type 1 – The body produces little to no insulin
- Type 2 – The body resists the effects of insulin
- Gestational – Insulin resistance occurs during pregnancy
Type 2 accounts for 90% of diabetes cases.
Though the exact causes remain unclear, risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include:
- Obesity
- Pre-diabetes
- Increasing age
- Physical inactivity
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Family history
- Ethnic background
- History of gestational diabetes
- Other conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome
Symptoms may include:
- Excessive thirst and frequent urination
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Lack of energy and fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow wound healing
- Tingling hands or feet
- Recurring infections
- Erectile dysfunction
However, some people show no obvious symptoms. Regular checkups help diagnose diabetes early.
Making healthy lifestyle choices helps prevent or delay diabetes:
- Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and activity
- Eat more fiber, fruits, and vegetables
- Limit fat, salt, and alcohol
- Stay active for at least 30 minutes daily
- Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke
- Get enough sleep and manage stress
- Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar in check
Pre-diabetes means blood sugar is elevated but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Still, it signals the need for lifestyle changes to prevent progression to full diabetes.
The carbohydrates you eat convert into blood glucose for energy. Insulin allows this glucose to enter your cells. Over time, consistently high blood sugar causes the pancreas to tire and reduce insulin production. This allows glucose to remain elevated in the bloodstream.
Diabetes can lead to eye issues like:
- Diabetic retinopathy – blood vessel damage in the retina
- Cataracts – clouding of the lens
- Glaucoma – fluid pressure increase and optic nerve damage
Good blood sugar control helps prevent vision loss. Laser surgery can reduce severe vision loss risk by 90% if caught early.
Comprehensive Diabetes Care - Monthly Sessions, Home Visits, and More
Empower yourself and your family through our interactive monthly diabetes sessions. On the last Thursday of each month, we host workshops covering topics like dental health, foot care, nutrition, and lab test reviews. Healthcare professionals also provide the latest medical guidance.
Get personalized nutrition coaching tailored to your health goals with our one-on-one education program. Our registered dietitian helps create customized meal plans to manage your diabetes effectively.
For those needing assistance, our Home and Community Care team provides in-home healthcare and support services. We assist those managing acute conditions, chronic illnesses, palliative care, or rehabilitation needs.
Bring our workshops to your community!
Proudly Sponsored by:
Seabird Island Band
University of British Columbia
First Nations and Inuit Health
Health Canada
Schedule a Diabetes Clinic in Your Community
Bring our comprehensive diabetes care to your neighborhood. To learn more or book a clinic, contact Bonnie Nickel, LPN at:
Phone: (604) 796-2177
Email: bonnie@seabirdisland.ca
You can also fax clinic requests to:
Fax: (604) 796-1124.
Bonnie will provide details on our interactive workshops, medical guidance from professionals, and personalized coaching. We empower patients with the knowledge and tools to actively manage their diabetes.
