They've walked 230 miles since September, she said. Another group goes to the North Kitsap Community Pool for water aerobics. With the pool scheduled to close for renovations this fall, Baze plans to use some of the grant money for training in chair aerobics so the group can substitute that popular exercise. Those that swim are usually those that don't walk because of joint problems or other things. Some of the grant money also will go toward the diabetes support group Baze runs.
Elders meet once a month for a nutritious meal and talking circles to share concerns and tips.
The gatherings include door prizes like diabetic cookbooks and sugar-free salad dressing, luxuries the group members wouldn't purchase for themselves, Baze said. According to the American Diabetes Association, the rate of diabetes among adult Native Americans is 12.2 percent, compared to the 4 percent rate in the general population. Diabetes, heart disease and accidents are the main causes of death and disabilities in Northwest tribes. Click here to send your ideas to The Sun.