BAVINA SOOKDEO

With more than 422 million people worldwide grappling with the challenges of diabetes, raising awareness and providing education have become critical components in the global effort to combat this escalating health threat.

Committed to this mission is the Bovell Cancer-Diabetes Foundation (BCDF), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to enriching lives affected by cancer and diabetes. Founded in December 2008, the foundation operates as a voluntary, incorporated, and non-profit entity.

Its mission, as articulated by Dr Adelia Bovell-Benjamin, a director, is to provide financial resources, support, preventive and management education for individuals living with cancer and diabetes.

The foundation is managed by a board of 12 directors who share a collective vision of making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by these chronic conditions. It was created in honour of Mildred and Theophilus Bovell, for their extraordinary commitment to enriching lives. Their daughter, Bovell-Benjamin, said, 'Their passion for helping others and enhancing the community in which they lived impacted many individuals. They inspired young people to pursue their education, and older adults to enhance their skills in adult education classes.'

The foundation continues to raise awareness, provide education, and advocate for improved healthcare. With a steady pool of approximately 35 volunteers, and with additional volunteers mobilised for specific projects, the foundation recognises the invaluable role of volunteers in realising its mission.

'One of the most important assets of the foundation is its volunteers.' Bovell-Benjamin said. 'BCDF is proud to give people the opportunity to incorporate service into their lives while making a difference in their community, country, and perhaps in the world.'

The commitment to raising awareness and supporting affected individuals is well represented in the calendar of events. As part of activities to mark World Diabetes Day which was observed on November 14, the foundation hosted the 15th Annual Diabetes in the Limelight event on November 10, at the Cyd Gray Sporting Complex in Roxborough, Tobago, with the theme, Know your risk, Know your response.

The all-day health fair featured booths offering blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol testing, diabetes-related information, weight clinics, footcare education, stroke education and spirituality. Also, a food demonstration by a qualified nutritionist showcased the preparation of a healthy, culturally-appropriate dish.

Bovell-Benjamin see the observance of World Diabetes Day as a call to action for everyone. She said, 'It is a call to action for individuals, communities, and nations to work together in creating a healthier future and ensuring that people living with diabetes have the knowledge and resources needed for effective management and well-being.'

Among its diverse activities the BCDF's education drive also include, the Children and Teen Hangout, small group workshops, and monthly