Taking “Control” Out of Diabetes
Jessica Bernstein is a doctor of psychology and director/producer of the documentary film Blood & Honey. She has been presenting a number of well attended talks entitled “Taking ‘Control’ Out of Diabetes.” These presentations focus on one of the sub-themes of the film—the notion 
that it is possible to control and overcome illness. Phrases like, “She’s got her cancer under control” and “He’s learned how to control his Tourette’s Syndrome” are widespread. “Control” is particularly emphasized in diabetes care, where patients are taught to “control” their blood sugar levels. Many patients feel guilt and shame when, despite their best efforts, they still have erratic blood sugars.
Dr. Bernstein explores the notion of control and discusses how it relates to our fear of suffering. She presents a fresh perspective about a new way of approaching diabetes care which could improve the psychological experience of anyone diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. It can also assist friends, family, and health care professionals in supporting those living with the condition.
This talk includes a preview of raw footage from the film project Blood & Honey, currently in production (See About the Film). The film is dependent upon tax deductible donations in order to reach completion. (Support the Film)
See featured articles about this talk in the Los Angeles Times and the San Francisco Chronicle.
Upcoming Presentations
November 11, 2010
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA:
Taking “Control” Out of Diabetes
Time: Thursday, November 11, 2010 8 to 10pm
Location: Fairfax High School, 7850 Melrose Avenue, L.A., CA 90046
RSVP Jessica Bernstein / jessica@bloodandhoney.org
Sponsored by the American Diabetes Association and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
This talk is part of the events presented in November in honor of National Diabetes Month. The venue seats 1400 people and is wheel chair accessible. The event is open to the public at no cost. Donations to the film are appreciated but not required.
The entrance to the school is on Melrose and Ogden which is one block east of Fairfax. The parking lot is on the corner of Fairfax and Melrose and you can enter off Fairfax or Melrose. The school lot can accommodate 250 to 300 cars. We anticipate that there may be many more than 250 to 300 people so we suggest that you carpool if possible.
Street parking is also available. After 5pm you do not need a permit to park on the surrounding streets.
Download a printable pdf flyer for this event