A "mother/child getaway" for mothers of children with diabetes took place at the guest house in Yad Binyamin, with more than 100 people taking part in the unique, uplifting experience.

Participants in the "Sweet Retreat" were treated to an assortment of high interest and quality programs with a fabulous closing event at the marina in Ashdod.

Aside from the diverse programs, the opportunity to encounter other parents and children with diabetes in a relaxed atmosphere was in itself an invaluable experience. For the second time in their lives (the first being at last year's getaway), the parents and children were able to pull off their masks of secrecy for two glorious days.

The parents developed and fortified close bonds with one another. For many of those participating for the second time in the getaway, we could tangibly see progress in the emotional aspect as compared to last year's retreat.

The prime mover in this well organized getaway was Yael Neiman, a dedicated and talented volunteer.

Ezer Mizion carries on a broad range of activities for the juvenile diabetes population on a regular basis. The activities are an outgrowth of the cooperative connection between Ezer Mizion and the Israel Juvenile Diabetes Association, with Ezer Mizion serving as the chareidi branch of the association.

Most recently, Ezer Mizion held a gathering in Jerusalem for married women with Type 1 diabetes, on topics of interest to them. A lecture was delivered by Professor Uriel Alchallal, from the Womens' Department in Hadasassah, as well as by a dietician specializing in diabetic nutrition. This was the first opportunity the women had to become acquainted with each other. More such activities are planned for women, such as workshops on proper nutrition and on the correct use of an insulin pump.

An additional project that is now concluding its first year is the mentor program. In the framework of this innovative project, an adult mentor with diabetes "adopts" a young diabetic, with the pairs assembling at a weekly program funded by the Juvenile Diabetes Association and directed by Ezer Mizion.

Ezer Mizion also has a phone hot-line - "the Sweet Connection" - manned by people who give support and guidance to callers with Type 1 diabetes.