John Smith, representing Dr. Sherman's family, also spoke of her commitment and dedication to her patients. His message to the doctors and staff of the Women's Care Center was that the best way to honor Dr. Sherman's memory is by caring for their patients with the same dedication and devotion that she demonstrated throughout her remarkable medical practice. Members of Dr. Sherman's family unveiled a commemorative plaque near the entrance to the unit on the hospital's first floor. The plaque was presented by the hospital's Board of Directors and Medical Staff and the Warren Memorial Hospital Foundation. The free outreach education program is supported by a grant from the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation.
Uncontrolled diabetes can pose significant health risks to both the mother and child.
However, research shows that if blood sugar is controlled at conception, the risk of congenital abnormalities and miscarriage is significantly reduced, explains Ann Williams, RN, Clinical Nurse Specialist with Valley health System's Diabetes Management Program. Poor control over a longer period in the pregnancy increases the risk up to six times normal. The Healthy Start Workshop is designed for women who have, or are at risk for developing, diabetes of any kind. Women most at risk are those who have a history of gestational diabetes or delivering a baby weighing over 9 pounds in a previous pregnancy, are 20 percent over their ideal weight, are over the age of 30, or have a family history of diabetes. Although ideal for women who are planning a pregnancy, the workshop will also be valuable for women who are already pregnant.