Reflecting on 2012, Looking Forward to 2013!

As we come to the end of the year, the Kovler Diabetes Center at the University of Chicago has much to celebrate.

In 2012, our doctors and nurses treated thousands of individuals with diabetes. Diabetes experts also established or strengthened clinical partnerships throughout the world and provided diabetes management and prevention education at events large and small across Chicagoland and the U.S. You can read more about the amazing work over the last fiscal year in our first-ever Kovler Annual Report.

Based in the heart of one of the world’s great academic institutions, Kovler scientists are doing innovative research informed by a century of scientific discoveries and breakthroughs at University of Chicago. Our genetics team recently identified new genes that cause diabetes. Their work could lead one day to a better understanding of the effects of gene mutations on insulin production and metabolism, and provide pathways to treatments that once seemed unimaginable.

Alongside research, this type of outstanding, personalized patient care is at the heart of Kovler’s mission. From infants through adulthood, we provide the nation’s only fully-integrated pediatric and adult diabetes programs. Our Family Behavioral Health and Wellness Program is forging a national model for family-centered diabetes care. And three doctors in the Kovler Diabetes Center, including director, Dr. Lou Philipson, were recognized by U.S. News & World Report in its ranking of the nation’s top physicians in the field.

This year, we launched critical initiatives including our volunteer initiative Kovler Krew, InTransit Teen Advisory Panel, Peer to Peer program in our Southside Community and held multiple Kovler for Kids events throughout the city. To learn more about the work we do and ways to get involved, visit the Kovler website. You may also contact Peggy Hasenauer, Executive Director, directly via email peggy.hasenauer@uchospitals.edu or by calling 773.834.4789.

This year, as you and your family choose charitable causes, we hope you will consider Kovler Diabetes Center.  Your charitable support is critical to expanding clinical research programs and telemedicine initiatives, as Kovler’s leadership embarks on an expanded model for virtual diabetes care and greater access to diabetes clinical trials – bringing new discoveries and possible cures directly to those with diabetes.  For more ways to learn how to give to Kovler, please visit this website and be sure to note Kovler in the memo section.

From the Kovler Diabetes Center Family to yours, we wish you a wonderful holiday season and happy New Year filled with health and happiness.

Peggy Hasenauer, MS, RN
Executive Director
The University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center

Our Inaugural Annual Report

On behalf of the entire leadership team at Kovler, we are honored to share our inaugural Annual Report. 

The report includes:

• The latest information regarding the global pandemic of diabetes and the rise in cases of type 1, type 2 and other genetic forms of diabetes locally, regionally and nationally.
• A reflection on the accomplishments, challenges and priorities of the Kovler Diabetes Center and the entire University of Chicago Medicine diabetes enterprise.
• Examples and highlights from Kovler’s five main pillars… We Care, We Discover, We Educate, We Unite, and We Lead.

Much of the work that the Kovler Diabetes Center has accomplished, and continues to pursue, could not happen without the generous contributions and support from our partnering individuals and organizations. While we look back and celebrate the successes of 2012, we also look forward to continuing our mission in 2013 and beyond.

We wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy holiday season!

Kovler's Spring/Summer Newsletter is Out!

Kovler Diabetes Center’s Spring / Summer Newsletter is now LIVE on our website.  Our bi-annual newsletter is Kovler’s way to share the incredible people, community members and organizations who are making a difference across the globe for those living with diabetes, including right here in Chicago.  Be sure to be on the lookout later this summer for our new MONTHLY e-newsletter.

This issues highlights include:

·   Kovler ’s team traveled the globe this winter, speaking on the latest in diabetes care and research

·    Feature articles showcasing Kovler leadership, Claire from Kovler for Kids, and InTransit’s Adventurous Alex

·   Introducing KovlerKrew, Kovler’s newest volunteer effort

·   Recent community events and upcoming events this fall that will benefit Kovler Diabetes Center’s vital work

·   Expanding Clinical Trial Efforts and so much more

Please visit www.kovlerdiabetescenter.org to see the latest newsletter and while there, be sure to join our mailing list at “Connect With Us” for our new e-newsletter.

Kovler Diabetes Center is committed to helping families, individuals and our community to live their best life with diabetes throughout their lifespan.

Visit our Facebook Page to let us know how we can help YOU.

Type 1 
Diabetes Lounge Sponsored by Kovler

On April 28, more than 65 guests and 10 vendors attended the Type 1 
Diabetes Lounge educational luncheon on “Type 1 Diabetes: Innovation in Care and Research” at the Glenview Golf Club. This event is a first of its kind in the North Shore of Chicago targeting adults living with Type 1 diabetes and providing critical education and support on managing diabetes throughout the lifespan.

This event was very well received by the vendors and attendees alike.  Many commented how there is not education like this in the North Shore that specifically targets Type 1 diabetes. Additionally, the intimate setting to hear Amy and Lou speak was a main draw. Kovler Diabetes Center sponsored the event, which included a vendor showcase and presentations by Kovler team members, Lou Philipson, MD, PhD, and Amy
 Hess-Fischl, MS, RD, LDN, BC-ADM, CDE.  Dr. Philipson presented the “Frontiers in Diabetes Research”, and Amy spoke to attendees on diabetes management as well as providing the seminar “Beyond Carb Counting: Advanced Tips & Tools.”

Kovler for Kids is Improving Care for Newly Diagnosed Diabetics

I am sure you remember the day your child was diagnosed with diabetes.  You can probably remember the exact date and location where this happened.  You may remember the weeks prior to diagnosis and wondering, “Why is my child so tired?” “Why are they loosing weight?” “Why are they so thirsty and urinating so much?” A diagnosis of diabetes was probably the last thing on your mind.

You may also remember how you felt when the diagnosis was confirmed; perhaps it was disbelief, fear, panic, anger, or all of the above and more. Although nothing can make receiving a diagnosis of diabetes stress free, the team at the Kovler Diabetes Center for Kids are doing all we can to make the process as smooth as possible.

When a child is admitted to Comer Children’s Hospital with a new diagnosis of diabetes, a team of providers become involved in the care.  Heading the team are the Pediatric Endocrinologists and Pediatric Endocrinology Fellows, in collaboration with the Pediatric Medical Service. Other members of the team include Critical and Acute Care Nurses, Certified Diabetes Educators, Registered Dietitians, Pharmacists, Social Workers, and Discharge Planners. We work together to ensure all of the patient’s needs are met during their hospitalization.

Over the past year we have developed an Inpatient Diabetes Multidisciplinary Work Team with the purpose of improving the care we give our kids who are newly diagnosed or admitted for complications related to diabetes.  We have representatives from all of the involved disciplines.

This year, some of the accomplishments of the group include:

• An admission informational sheet for families, outlining hospital course.
• An educational PowerPoint for residents.
• A discharge prescription-ordering sheet for diabetes medication and supplies.
• An informational take home kit.
• A 4-hour in-service program for nurses caring for newly diagnosed children.

Ongoing projects we are working on include:

• A DKA policy revision and standardization for ER, ICU, Gen floor.
• Standardization of insulin orders.
• A thorough policy for insulin pump use during hospitalization.
• Continued improvements in menus to improve carbohydrate-counting clarity, and encourage healthy food choices.

Our goal is to continue to improve the services we provide to our kids and families, so that we can offer the best possible care during this critical time. Hopefully we can make it just a little less stressful for both our patients and their families.

We would love to hear about your experiences and welcome any suggestions and ideas you may have.

Susan McLaughlin, RN, BSN, CDE
Registered Nurse and Certified Diabetes Educator

Susan.McLaughlin@uchospitals.edu

9th Annual Diabetes EXPO

On Saturday, April 14^th the University of Chicago Medicine Kovler Diabetes Center was thrilled to be part of the 9^th Annual Diabetes EXPO at McCormick Place.  This educational event attracted more than 8,000 people with free health screenings, educational workshops, cooking demonstrations, and the latest in diabetes management and prevention.  Kovler Diabetes Center and the University of Chicago Medicine marketing team expanded our presence this year: showcasing our comprehensive services, our health care team, Kovler for Kids and InTransit programs, and more.

“The Diabetes EXPO is the largest in the country for people living with diabetes,” said Lou Philipson, MD, PhD, Director of Kovler Diabetes Center.  “We were thrilled to expand our presence with the support of the University of Chicago Medicine marketing department.  Not only did we double our space, we were able to create an experience for attendees to see the depth and breadth of the medical center as you navigate diabetes care throughout a patient’s lifespan.”

The University of Chicago Medicine Kovler Diabetes Center had an interactive space that encouraged all attendees to explore everything that we have to offer. Additionally, we were excited to have Chef Michael Digby, Sous Chef at Quay Chicago, join us and discuss his experience on Food Network’s reality show, “Fat Chef,” and his upcoming cooking demonstration at our Living Well with Diabetes event. On the main stage, Lou Philipson, MD, PhD was a keynote speaker on the “Frontiers in Diabetes Research.”

We want to thank everyone whose hard work went into making such a successful day. We are already looking forward to next year!

For more pictures, check out our Facebook,and for more information from the Diabetes EXPO, visit www.diabetes.org/chicagoexpo.

Kovler CDE Goes the Extra Mile…Then Goes Home to Son with Diabetes

Susan McLaughlin, Registered Nurse and Certified Diabetes Educator at Kovler

When Susan McLaughlin’s son was 8 years old, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, and her life changed forever.  She, like many other parents of children with diabetes, didn’t sleep well that diagnosis…for what felt like years.  She explained that, “You always have one ear out for a low blood sugar episode.”

Two years after her son’s condition was confirmed, McLaughlin – at the time, a critical care nurse – went back to school and earned her certification as a diabetes educator. Today, McLaughlin, RN, BSN, CDE, helps outpatients at the University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center, as well as inpatients at the University of Chicago Medical Center and at Comer Children’s Hospital.

Today, McLaughlin’s son is grown, healthy and about to enter college. But because of his diagnosis, understanding and compassion are all part of a day’s work for her.

“Parents can be overwhelmed,” she said. “It can seem like their child’s diabetes just fell out of the sky. Parents ask questions like, ‘Is my son or daughter going to be OK, and can they live a normal life?’ I can relate to their fear.”

McLaughlin also sees adults admitted to the hospital with diabetes who are often frightened.  Their diabetes has been out of control for some time, and they’re stressed, feeling sick, and maybe a little panicked.

Whether young or old, McLaughlin treats her patients with sensitivity and compassion, as well as information that can restore a sense of hope. She has extensive knowledge about medications and treatments, and works as part of the medical team to create an optimal individualized care plan during hospitalization, and when patients return as an outpatient. Before each child or adult is discharged, McLaughlin makes sure they understand the prescribed medical plan and obtain the right prescriptions. Patients are also are trained in glucometer use, insulin injection and given a nutrition and exercise plan, developed in partnership with experienced dietitians.

Kovler's Team of Certified Diabetes Educators

For McLaughlin it’s important that her patients are safe and confident when they’re treating their diabetes at home.  That’s why the Certified Diabetes Educators and/or Endocrinologists are available 24 hours a day. When newly diagnosed children go home, their parents are encouraged to call every night to speak with a Pediatric Endocrinologist until they’re comfortable managing their child’s disease.

McLaughlin explains that, “The team at the Kovler Diabetes Center is very proactive with our kids. Parents often need to ask a lot of questions, and we’re sensitive to the newness of it all and to their emotional needs. I can say, ‘I know you’re overwhelmed, and I understand your fear.’  I just want all of our Kovler patients to feel comfortable managing their diabetes and live a life that’s fulfilling.”

To learn more about our team of Certified Diabetes Educators, which includes Susan McLaughlin, Amy Hess-Fischl and Donna Prost, please visit our website or contact us.  To read this article and others, please check out our most recent edition of Kovler Connection!

Peggy Hasenauer, MS, RN
Executive Director
The University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center