BCHC Hosts Successful “Sweet Balance” Diabetes Awareness Event

By: Aprill Murphy

ALBION, Neb. (Nov. 10, 2025) –Boone County Health Center hosted its first Sweet Balance event on Thursday, November 6, in recognition of Diabetes Awareness Month. The evening drew a strong turnout of approximately 80 guests who came to learn, connect, and find that “sweet balance” in managing and preventing diabetes through healthy habits, support, and practical tips. In addition, about 30 Boone County Health Center staff members helped organize and host the event, contributing to its overall success.

Dr. Sean Kohl, Family Practice Physician at Boone County Health Center, opened the evening by defining prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, outlining key risk factors, treatments, and potential complications.

Keynote speaker Sam Beckler, RN, CDCES, from Bryan Health, shared her personal journey of living with type 1 diabetes since age 11 and gave an inspiring presentation on maintaining lifestyle balance while managing the condition.

Kayla Baker, Director of the Behavioral Health Department at Boone County Health Center, concluded the presentations by highlighting the importance of mindfulness and stress management in overall diabetes care.

Guests enjoyed complimentary appetizers, a free wine tasting donated by Albion Thrifty Way, and a fun selfie photo booth. Boone County Health Center staff also provided free blood pressure and glucose checks throughout the evening. Many guests left with giveaway items, and Lily Thieman took home the event’s grand door prize.

Attendees visited booths hosted by Boone County Health Center departments—including Behavioral Health, Nutrition, Exercise Therapy, Wound Care, Diabetic Foot Care, Senior Life Solutions, Aesthetics Clinic, Lymphedema Treatment, and Pharmacy—as well as community partners such as Palmer Eye Care, Wells Drug, Prep’d by Cola, and doTERRA Essential Oils. Representatives from Libre, Dexcom, and Tandem were also on hand to share the latest in continuous glucose monitoring technology.

The Sweet Balance event was made possible through grant funding for diabetes education and was organized by Stephanie Scott, RD, Diabetic Educator, and Jamie Beister, RN, CFCS, Diabetic Educator with the goal of providing a meaningful and informative educational experience for attendees on managing and preventing diabetes.

Boone County Health Center staff wore teal blue—the color of Diabetes Awareness Month—to show support and unity. The Health Center hopes to make Sweet Balance an annual tradition to continue raising awareness and offering practical support for those affected by diabetes.