Reader now concerned about diabetes care

Letter to the Editor,

I am an officer with the Diabetic Support Group here in Libby. As a group, we are very frustrated. I have received a lot of support and education from the dietitians since I was diagnosed in 2000. I feel that we are being singled out to do away with the sick and elderly.

When a diabetic is in a crisis, they can’t wait two to three weeks to get answers from a dietitian. They need that advice immediately.

We received full-time support from Becky Brundin and Matt Larsen as they went above and beyond their duties to take care of their patients.

Now, with no explanation from St. John’s Lutheran Hospital, we no longer have either of them for support.

We have gone from a full-time dietitian or diabetes educator to some support two times a month. I feel that Lincoln County will feel the brunt of this in the near future.

I will be free to talk to anyone from St. John’s Hospital who can give me answers as to why this change was necessary.

As diabetics we feel that two times a month is not enough support.

— Millie Duff

Libby