Diabetes Education Center Partners with American Idol Celebrity for Important Discussion


Vol. 16, No. 3
Summer/Fall 2006

  • Scoliosis Patient Stands Taller after Complex Surgeries

  • Winthrop Specialists Named to Top Doctors List

  • Renovation Project Extended Thanks to Senator Balboni

  • Winthrop Opens Beautifully Expanded Admitting Office

  • ER & Cardiac Team's Exceptional Response Time Saves Father of Two

  • Winthrop Plays Major Role in County-Wide Emergency Preparedness Drill

  • Winthrop's Department of Pediatrics Admitted to Prestigious National Association

  • Don't let obesity take you from them

  • Cancer Survivor's Inspiring "Mask of Courage" Evokes Hope

  • Winthrop Appoints Board of Directors Chairman

  • Former Winthrop President Passes Away

  • CyberKnife Restores Mother's Hearing and Preserves Grandfather's Active Lifestyle

  • Winthrop Introduces Toilet-Training Program

  • Winthrop First LI Hospital to Pioneer Use of Advanced Physician Order Entry Technology

  • Citigroup Foundation and Garden City Family Support Cancer Center for Kids

  • Charlie's Champions Rally in Support of Cancer Center for Kids

  • Horticultural Therapy Program Branches Out Thanks to Fidelity Investments

  • West Islip Family Thanks Pediatric Center

  • Garden City Second Grader Dedicates Birthday to Young Patients

  • Jets Fans' Contributions Benefit Pediatric Patients

  • Kids for Care Hosts Dinner Supporting Pediatric ER Patients

  • Diabetes Education Center Partners with American Idol Celebrity for Important Discussion

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    • Kevin Covais with his parents

    In early September, Winthrop's Diabetes Education Center welcomed American Idol star Kevin Covais for "Don't Let Diabetes Stop You from Pursuing Your Dreams," a free community program that tackled the issues facing children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

    While 17-year-old Kevin, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 10, spent time speaking with children and their siblings, his parents John and Patty Covais met with other parents to discuss important topics such as letting go, traveling concerns and hectic schedules, among other diabetes-related issues.

    "We are so grateful that Kevin was willing to share his inspiring story of what it's like to enter the world of celebrity as a young adult with type 1 diabetes," explained Virginia Peragallo-Dittko, RN, Director of Winthrop's Diabetes Education Center.


    Kevin Covais has lent his time and support at other Winthrop events, including the spring Cancer Center for Kids 5K Walk/Run held in Great Neck where many lined up for his autograph.
    The Center offers children free support groups, including "Kindred Spirits" and "Kids Interested in Diabetes," which is sponsored by the Edward Smith Mineola Lions Club. For more information about the Center and its comprehensive programs, call (516) 663-2350.


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