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SALT LAKE CITY — Ivoni Nash has more than 40 years of experience living with diabetes, but as most Tongan natives who move to the states, she found it hard to believe when first diagnosed.
Nash says Pacific Islander's diets are comprised of mostly organic food and when in the U.S. they are introduced to a variety of unhealthy foods and beverages previously not available to them.
The CDC reports diabetes is three times more prevalent in the Pacific Islander population than that of the white population.
In fact, Nash is among four of seven in her family with the disease, a reality that changed her life and inspired her to change the lives of others. She joined the non-profit, National Tongan American Society and spends her days teaching how to manage the disease.
"We teach them in their own language that diabetes is OK, you can live with it," Nash says. She helps her Islander community understand the disease and how to best manage food and insulin levels.
Nash says, "You should see their face after they learn, they're happy."
Nash says three out of five Pacific Islanders in Utah has diabetes. A disease that may take some time adjusting, but the end can result in a long and healthy life.
To this Nash says, "You are the one who controls it. Diabetes does not control you." Jenniffer is a Special Projects Producer who heads up the Your Life Your Health, Zero Fatalities and High 5 initiatives. For questions, feedback or possible story ideas, please email jmichaelson@ksl.com.
