Graduates of the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley Diabetes Prevention Program Get Motivated for Holiday Season

Jennie Quon demonstrated how to make a lower-calorie cheesecake.

In early November 2012, the 16-week SDPI-funded Diabetes Prevention Program at the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley located in San Jose, California, came to an end. Two classes totaling nearly 30 people were graduating the program just in time to put their new knowledge and skills to work: Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's celebrations were fast approaching. Could the groups stay motivated through the holidays, the months to follow and for the rest of their lives?

How to keep eating healthy and being physically active were the topics of these final classes. Dietitian Jennie Quon began the classes by showcasing accomplishments. She asked each participant how their lives had changed since attending the first classes in July. Answers included: "I read food labels and stopped drinking five pops a day." "I park further away from work, and I walk during my breaks." "I am using a manual wheelchair instead of a motorized one." "I say 'yes' to my children whenever they ask me to go out and play with them." (This man lost over 15 pounds!)

To stay motivated, Jennie suggested that participants call the staff, call each other, read magazines and inspirational materials, keep daily food and exercise journals, and not get discouraged when there are setbacks. "You have come a long way," she said. "This is not the end of your healthy journey. It's just the start of your life-long healthy lifestyle."