Anjellica Sharpe, who has Type 1 diabetes, felt compelled to help other diabetics. As a result, the Atlanta native founded Heeling Diabetes Inc. with the goal of providing guidance and support for the millions of Americans suffering from the disease.
Rolling out recently spoke with Sharpe to learn more.
What guided you to start Heeling Diabetes Inc.?
Heeling Diabetes Inc. was created to assist diabetics to live a healthier and more comfortable lifestyle. When I first started this organization, I had no guidance — only the vision God gave me. Shortly after manifesting Heeling Diabetes Inc., I enrolled for my own medical insurance. I had an unreasonably high deductible and wasn’t able to afford my diabetes medicine.
I rationed my medication for a short time before the family began to notice. My grandmother, being a fellow Type 1 diabetic, fortunately, had an additional amount of medicine and was able to provide me with the insulin I needed. I then learned through the diabetic community that there were many diabetics experiencing the same complications; this shifted my organization’s purpose. I want Heeling Diabetes Inc. to be the resource that diabetics can turn to when they need assistance.
Is there a reason for using “heeling” instead of healing in the name?
H.E.E.L. is actually an acronym. Our mission is to heal, empower, and educate the life of those affected by diabetes.
What services and programs do you offer?
Heeling Diabetes Inc. offers the “Curing in Heels” educational program. This program was created to empower people to take charge of their diabetes, avoid complications from the disease and improve self-management skills. This free program is managed by trained diabetes educators and other healthcare professionals to support pre-diabetics and diabetics with their journey. Along with this educational program, we offer assistance for diabetics’ healthcare costs. Depending on one’s insurance provider, the average cost of insulin is about $500.
Additionally, we host charity events, such as our annual Secret Garden Gala. Each year, Heeling Diabetes Inc. kicks off National Diabetes Awareness Month [in November] with a charity gala for the diabetic community. Our goal is to celebrate those making an impact within the community as we raise funds to continue our efforts in assisting diabetics. This year’s gala will be held at the Atlanta City Hall Atrium on Nov. 2.
How can others assist?
We welcome all support. If you’re a health care professional, wellness enthusiast or someone affected by diabetes, we believe your story and resources are valuable.
For more information, please visit www.heelingdiabetes.com. For donation, sponsorship and partnership opportunities, please visit www.heelingdiabetes.com/donate.
