Health Champions Rise at Burns Creek Hi Way Church Training

Burns Creek Hi Way SDA Church hosted a successful health risk assessment facilitators training program from April 2 to 5, 2023, aimed at early detection and intervention of diabetes and related illnesses. The event was organized by the Adventist Health 10000 Toes Office and funded by the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

A total of 48 participants were trained in various skills, such as measuring height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, as well as calculating Body Mass Index (BMI). Additionally, they learned how to provide basic lifestyle intervention messages and activities to address the identified risks.

The 10000 Toes initiative seeks to empower churches and communities to turn the tide on diabetes and related illnesses. The program focuses on equipping church communities with knowledge and skills in health assessment, providing them with health assessment tools, and teaching them about lifestyle intervention messages and activities.

The training proved successful, with participants now capable of identifying individuals at risk of developing non-communicable diseases, including diabetes. The Burns Creek Hi Way SDA Church can now provide basic lifestyle intervention messages using the NEWSTART program, helping to create a healthier community.

Gad Koito, the 10000 Toes Coordinator and Trainer, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the training's success. He believes that the acquired knowledge and skills can be used as tools to enhance the mission of the church, ultimately transforming it into a wellness hub doing medical missionary work and providing whole person health.