Wellness Vacation
WAVES diabetes is an innovative diabetes management program created and led by a team consisting of a nurse
and a dietitian, both certified diabetes educators. The program was developed in response to the
DAWN (Diabetes Attitudes Wishes and Needs) study. The WAVES diabetes program takes diabetes education out of the classroom
into a non-traditional and hands-on setting, that of a wellness vacation. This program creates
an opportunity for clients to have ongoing education and support while facing daily challenges,
such as eating in restaurants and incorporating exercise into their day. With the guidance of
diabetes educators, lessons that were formerly taught in the classroom can be turned into life
lessons with immediate application. The design of the WAVES diabetes program incorporates group class format,
daily exercise, as well as informal opportunities for enhanced communication, and individual support.
Each day of the program involves teaching/learning self-management skills based on the American Association of
Diabetes Educators 7 Self-Care Behaviors. The topics include: healthy eating habits, being active, monitoring
health status, taking medications, problem solving, healthy coping, and risk reduction. Those attending will have
the opportunity to take advantage of all the wonderful amenities the cruise ship has to offer such as shore excursions,
luxurious swimming pools, and a wonderful menu.
The inaugural WAVES diabetes program took place in January 2006. Professional staff Deborah Greenwood APRN,
BC-ADM, MEd, CDE and Jenna Scarsi, RD, LDN, CDE, led the participants. Sailing aboard Celebrity Cruise
ship Constellation for a southern Caribbean cruise on Saturday, January 28, through Saturday, February
4. The itinerary included stops in many tropical destinations including Puerto Rico, the Dominican
Republic, Barbados, Grenada, St. Kitts and St. Thomas. In addition to the 190 square-foot staterooms
with 41 square-foot balconies, cruise-goers enjoyed the many benefits of the Celebrity Concierge Class.
The trip was open to those with diabetes, their family and friends.