(ARA) - Is it possible for your entire life to change in one afternoon? Jonathan Cottom believes so. He attended the American Diabetes Association EXPO in Pittsburgh, Pa. and came away a completely new outlook on the disease he has had for 31 years.

"I thought I knew everything about diabetes, but I was wrong," says Cottom. "I attended the EXPO and learned how to better control my diabetes for myself and my family."

The American Diabetes Association EXPOs are free community health events held throughout the country that include health screenings, cooking demonstrations, product exhibits and presentations on diabetes prevention and management. These events also include a Family Fun Zone with information and activities geared toward youth with diabetes and those who want to live a healthy lifestyle to prevent the disease.

"EXPO taught me about the new technology available and ways to keep my blood glucose levels safe, which may help keep diabetes complications minimal," says Cottom. "My aunt passed away at age 28 and my father at age 55, both from complications, so this is very important to me and my family."

Diabetes has a devastating effect on communities. Nearly 24 million adults and children have diabetes in the United States. An additional 57 million Americans have pre-diabetes. If current trends continue, one in three children born today in this country will face a future with diabetes.

People with diabetes can take steps to better manage the disease and lower the risk of its serious and sometimes deadly complications, such as heart attack, blindness, amputation and stroke. EXPO is a one-stop event where people with diabetes and their families can learn about these steps. And by participating in EXPO, participants will join the Association's movement to Stop Diabetes once and for all.

"I would say go and don't delay," says Cottom. "EXPO shows you can live your life like anyone else if you take care of yourself and don't let diabetes get the best of you."

For more information about diabetes or to find an EXPO in your area, call (800) DIABETES (800-342-2383), or visit diabetes.org/gotoexpo.

Courtesy of ARAcontent