As we close out National Diabetes Month, it’s time to focus on what truly keeps us strong — community, connection, and solidarity.
Managing or preventing diabetes isn’t just about numbers; it’s about having the right support system around you — people who remind you that you’re not alone, that small steps matter, and that together, we can build healthier workplaces, families, and futures.
The Power of Support
A diabetes diagnosis can feel isolating at first, but connection changes everything. Whether your support comes from family, coworkers, union wellness programs, or health professionals, having a team makes success possible.
Here’s why support matters:
- Accountability keeps you consistent. Sharing goals with others helps you stick with healthy habits.
- Encouragement turns tough days into manageable ones.
- Shared stories remind us that progress—not perfection—is the goal.
At work, this can be as simple as joining a wellness challenge, bringing healthier lunches to share, or checking in with a coworker about their progress.
Unions: A Force for Health and Hope
Unions have always stood for protection — on the job, in paychecks, and in life. Today, that protection extends to health and wellness.
Many unions and benefit funds offer programs that directly support members living with or at risk for diabetes:
- Free or low-cost screenings
- Nutrition and weight-management counseling
- Gym and fitness stipends
- Diabetes education classes
- Access to continuous glucose monitors and telehealth
- Mental health and stress-management resources
If you haven’t yet, reach out to your union health fund or wellness coordinator. Ask about diabetes prevention programs, A1C testing events, or fitness incentives. These benefits exist because your union fought for them — now it’s time to use them.
Staying Motivated: Small Wins, Big Change
Living strong with diabetes—or working to prevent it—is about daily victories:
- Choosing water instead of soda.
- Taking a quick walk on your break.
- Checking your glucose before a long shift.
- Getting enough rest.
- Celebrating milestones—like improved A1C results or consistent activity.
Each win adds up. Health is not a sprint—it’s a lifelong partnership between you, your provider, and your community.
From Awareness to Action
Over the past month, we’ve talked about knowing your risk, recognizing symptoms, getting tested, and using new tools to manage diabetes. But the real story isn’t about the disease—it’s about people.
People who are showing up for their families.
People who are learning, adapting, and thriving.
People who are proving that community and solidarity can change lives.
That’s what makes the labor movement powerful: when we unite for each other’s well-being, everyone rises.
Take the Next Step
As November ends, let’s keep the momentum going:
- Schedule your next A1C or glucose test.
- Join a union wellness or walking challenge.
- Encourage one coworker to get screened.
- Share your story with us at LaborPress.org — your experience could inspire someone else to take charge of their health.
Together, we’re stronger than diabetes.
Together, we build healthier futures.
Together, we live strong.
Follow LaborPress for ongoing resources, real stories, and health features all year long. Because solidarity doesn’t end in November—it’s every day.
