MCALLEN – Thousands around the Rio Grande Valley were offered free diabetes screenings and free lessons on how they can enjoy a healthier lifestyle at an expo.

CHANNEL 5 NEWS’ Heart of the Valley aimed to help people cope and learn about diabetes.

People gathered for the hosted event at the McAllen Convention Center. Sessions in English and Spanish were held for the audience.

“To really help you, your family members, take charge of your diabetes,” one woman said.

The event was part of KRGV’s Heart of the Valley series.

“We had about 3,000 people, we estimate, came out,” John Kittleman, the general manager of KRGV-TV Television said. “We came up with the concept called ‘Heart of the Valley’ which was an idea that four times a year the resources at CHANNEL 5, and I mean the whole CHANNEL 5, KRGV, resources would be pointed at an issue of community concern.”

The concept is in its second year.

“We’ve had a steady stream of people coming in for their diabetes, find out what their levels are,” Tammy Meier, human resources manager with KRGV-TV, said.

“So many things are going on from diabetes testing, screenings, free immunization for kids, cooking classes. There’s a Zumba class going on,” KRGV First Warn 5 Meteorologist Tim Smith said.

Kittleman said it was a partnership with UTRGV and the Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association.

“That’s why we’re here for. To help people stay well across the life span,” a woman said.

Another attendee said diabetes can lead to other complications. “It’s so important to catch it before,” she said.

“They need to know how to read the ingredients. It starts from there. Knowing what you’re reading, how to read it and then understanding how much you need of it daily,” H-E-B Chef Elton said.

“If you don’t have insurance, we offer the second Saturday screenings. Every second Saturday of the month,” H-E-B Dietician Andi Gonzalez said.

According to Kittleman, plans are already being worked on for the next year.

You can catch Con Mi Gente segments Tuesdays and Thursdays on CHANNEL 5 NEWS THIS MORNING and CHANNEL 5 NEWS at 5.