BROOKINGS, S.D. – South Dakota State University Extension Better Choices Better Health – South Dakota will host an educational webinar and community gatherings at locations throughout the state on July 10, 2025, for Chronic Disease Awareness Day.
The annual day of observance is dedicated to raising awareness of the challenges posed by long-term disease and to supporting and celebrating the resilience of those who face those challenges. In addition, South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden issued a proclamation naming July as Chronic Disease Awareness Month, encouraging all citizens to join in the observance.
“Living Your Best Life with Chronic Disease” will start at 10 a.m. CDT on July 10 and can be attended online via Zoom or at various locations throughout South Dakota. It is free to attend. To register and see the gathering locations, visit SDSU Extension Events page and search “disease”.
The virtual event is designed to uplift, educate and empower anyone living with a chronic condition, caring for a loved one or seeking ways to promote health and resilience in their communities. During the event, participants will explore strategies to manage chronic conditions; support friends, family and community members living with chronic illness; build resilience and maintain a positive outlook; and foster long-term wellness and improved quality of life.
“Chronic Disease Awareness Day is about more than raising awareness — it’s about building a stronger, more supportive community. It’s a chance to celebrate the strength and determination of individuals living with chronic illnesses and to learn practical ways to live better, healthier lives,” said Emily Vincelli, SDSU Extension Better Choices Better Health Community Health Educator.
Program panelists include Erin Hallenbeck, SDSU Extension Health and Physical Activity Field Specialist, on physical activity; Leacey Brown, SDSU Extension Gerontology Field Specialist, on the gerotranscendence theory that older adults may experience a mentality shift that results in more satisfied lives; Julie Nelson, SDSU Extension Mental Health Field Specialist, on mental health; and Becky Blue, a registered nurse and author of the book “Turning: The Magic and Mystery of More Days”.
Everyone who attends a watch party location will have a chance to win a copy of Blue’s book, a memoir that tells the story of her own aging journey and challenges readers to embrace getting older. Event hosts also encourage participants to wear orange on July 10 to help raise awareness for chronic disease.
Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and many others, impact millions of individuals and families. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, six in 10 adults in the U.S. live with a chronic disease, and four in 10 are managing two or more.
But the good news is that with the right tools, support and strategies, living your best life with a chronic condition is absolutely possible.
“Together, let’s lift each other up, spread awareness and commit to living our best lives — with strength, with hope and with community. We can’t wait to see you there,” Vincelli said.
For more information, contact Emily Vincelli, SDSU Extension BCBH Community Health Educator; or Samantha Christensen, SDSU Extension BCBH Program and Volunteer Coordinator.
