GOPIO-LA Addresses Critical Issue Of Diabetes At Informative Event

Photo: Cerritos Mayor Pro-tem Naresh Solanki presenting Proclamation to conveners

India-West Staff Reporter

ORANGE, CA – The GOPIO-LA Chapter hosted its annual event on November 16 at Tandoor Cuisine of India, bringing together over 120 attendees for an event on the critical issue of diabetes and resultant medical complications. Titled Uncontrolled Diabetes Complications and How to Reverse Them, the event featured expert discussions, a theatrical presentation, and interactive sessions highlighting the importance of managing diabetes through medical care and lifestyle changes.

The summit opened with a prayer by Dr. Sukrit Mukherjee and included a panel of experts: Dr. Asmath Noor (Periodontal Care Dentist), Dr. Arvind Mehta (Nephrologist), Dr. Hema Ramkumar (Retina Specialist), Dr. Anil Patil (Medical Digital Innovator), Dr. Rohini Joshi (Endocrinologist/Neurologist), Dr. Jay Amin (Weight Loss Specialist), Dr. Draupadi Talreja (Oncologist), and millet influencer Chhavi Chawla. The panelists emphasized that uncontrolled diabetes can lead to severe complications but that effective management, including dietary changes, can mitigate or even reverse the condition. A live millet khichdi demonstration by Yatri Shukla complemented this discussion.

Saahas for Cause, a nonprofit organization, presented a play titled A Sweet Concern, portraying the emotional and psychological challenges faced by diabetes patients and their families. The performance underscored the impact of the disease on family dynamics, reinforcing the summit’s focus on the holistic challenges of diabetes.

The event also showcased a diabetes-friendly meal featuring millet, sparking discussions on its high fiber content and role in managing blood sugar levels. Attendees participated in an interactive Q&A session with the specialists, who highlighted the importance of awareness and proactive care in reducing diabetes-related complications.

The summit was organized by GOPIO-LA President Charu Shivakumar, GOPIO-International Health and Wellness Co-Chair Aparna Hande, and GOPIO-International Women’s Affairs Co-Chair Rani Kuusto, with support from GOPIO-International Vice President and Treasurer Kewal Kanda and North America Coordinator Ashok Madan.

GOPIO-International Global Ambassador and Presidential Candidate Prakash Shah commended the conveners for their efforts.

Cerritos Mayor Naresh Solanki and Artesia Mayor Pro Tem Ali Sajjad Taj presented proclamations to the organizers, while speakers and event managers were recognized with appreciation medals.

Attendees received goodie bags as tokens of appreciation, concluding a well-rounded and informative event.