Comic Strip Delivers Message on Diabetes Health

Nationally syndicated “Baldo” comic uses humor and a family’s story to encourage individuals to call 1-866-SU-FAMILIA for diabetes information and referral to services in their community.

WASHINGTON, DC - Baldo and his family announced today they are joining with the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance) to get the word out on diabetes health, prevention, and treatment. In a series of comic strips that begin today, June 30th, and run in over 200 newspapers, Baldo, a Hispanic teen, will learn that his father has diabetes. Baldo, who thought he brought on his father’s ill-health by worrying him with his antics, comes to his father’s aid with support to help him exercise more and his sister, Gracie, encourages the family to eat healthier.

“The key to taking charge of diabetes in our community is awareness, diagnosis, and treatment. That’s why we are so proud to partner with the Alliance to get the word out on diabetes and what we can all do for good health,” says Baldo co-creator Hector Cantú.

Cantú and co-creator Carlos Castellanos hope the comic, published in both English and Spanish, will encourage readers to call the Alliance’s toll-free Su Familia National Hispanic Family Health Helpline (1-866-783-2645 or 1-866-SU-FAMILIA). Callers can speak to a health promotion advisor in Spanish or English to get a free bilingual booklet on diabetes and answers to their questions, including referral to diabetes services in their community. The toll-free Su Familia helpline will be prominently featured in the last daily strip of the multi-part story, which ends July 10th.

“It is an inspiration to work with Mr. Cantú and Mr. Castellanos, two talented young men who are putting their artistic and creative gifts behind an effort to help all families achieve better health,” says Dr. Jane L. Delgado, President and CEO of the Alliance. “Their work is an example of how we can each use our gifts to help our neighbors and communities build a healthier America,” concluded Dr. Delgado.