CdA Tribe Targets Diabetes

Perry Kitt has his feet examined by Judy Gordon an RN and certified diabetes educator on Tuesday at Benewah Medical Center in Plummer, Id. Maintaining feet is crucial for patients like Perry, Gordon said. “Preventing amputations is huge. (SR photo: Tyler Tjomsland)

Perry Kitt arrived at the Benewah Medical Center for his foot care appointment – a regular stop for the Coeur d’Alene Tribe elder and diabetic. “How are your feet doing?” said Judy Gordon, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator. Kitt, a 70-year-old Vietnam War veteran who grew up in DeSmet, answered, “I can’t see them. I’m too fat.” Joking aside, he described what’s bothering him lately: a muscle in one leg hurts when he steps forward. Gordon talked with him about compression socks, clipped his toenails and applied lotion. Keeping the feet healthy is crucial for patients like Kitt, she said. “Preventing amputations is huge.” The community health center operated by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe treats about 400 diabetics, who make up roughly 7 percent of the center’s patients/ Scott Maben , SR. More here .