Serena Valentine, was misdiagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in her twenties. This misdiagnosis is one of the many reasons she is a passionate advocate for health equity, eye health and diabetes education. In this episode we discuss Serena’s misdiagnosis, diabetes complications, healthcare disparities, food deserts and her advocacy efforts. BIO:  Serena Valentine, is an American Diabetes Association Focus on Diabetes Champion living in Houston, TX. Serena was incorrectly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in her twenties. It wasn’t until a visit to her OBGYN revealed she was actually living with type 2 diabetes. Serena lost vision in both eyes for 9 months due to diabetes-related eye disease before surgery helped her regain some sight in her left eye. Now, Serena dedicates her time to raising awareness about diabetes and diabetes-related eye disease through her work with the ADA and as a Diabetes Peer Educator and Executive Director of CORE Initiative, a Houston non-profit focused on health and wellness education and support. LINKS: * Meet Serena Page * Instagram: @prov31ladyv * TikTok: @renanicole83 * Focus on Diabetes