#divabetic

magine Yourself Riding in A Limousine, Not An Ambulance 

My journey as a diabetes advocate has been a rollercoaster of challenges and surprises, but I have to say, getting my moment in the spotlight in *People* magazine definitely gave me a turbo boost! 

Looking back at what we accomplished to make diabetes education feel less like a doctor's visit and more like a party is nothing short of mind-blowing. My presentations at the Pittsburgh American Diabetes Expo? Absolutely spectacular!

Our superstar, Divabetic – Makeover Your Diabetes educator, Jessica Issler, RD, CDCES, was practically inundated with requests to join us at the American Diabetes Association's Annual Expo in Pittsburgh. Seriously, it felt like I was getting a hundred messages, all screaming, “You absolutely HAVE to come!” Terri Seidman, our incredible Pittsburgh Program Director and a true type 1 diabetes warrior, caught wind of Divabetic and became our number one fan. I half expected her to show up with pom-poms—thankfully, we had plenty from our events!

After what felt like a high-stakes negotiation session (move over, peace treaties!), I finally agreed to host a Divabetic area at the ADA Expo. But I had one must-have: a white limousine prominently displayed in our section. Yes, you heard me right—a limousine! I know what you’re thinking: “A limo for diabetes?” But here's the deal: when most people think of diabetes, they picture an ambulance, and I wanted to change the narrative! I envisioned a glamorous ride symbolizing the fabulous life you can live with a little self-care.

I called upon my favorite designer, the fabulous Susan McCaslin, who created a sign that read, “With Proper Self-Care, You’re Not Just Riding in an Ambulance, You’re Cruisin’ in a Limo!” Talk about an attention-grabber!

Then the big day arrived, and I was all set for my diva-betic moment. But Terri hit me with the ultimate plot twist: she couldn’t get the white limousine. My heart sank faster than a lead balloon! I thought I was doomed. But just when I thought my dreams were crashing down, Terri led me to our Divabetic area and—ta-da!—there it was! A vintage white convertible, sparkling like it was ready to star in its own Hollywood film! I was over the moon—who needs a limo when you’ve got a classic like this?

I’m absolutely thrilled about my friend Alyson Williams’ new song, “Useless Love”!

Despite her busy schedule with performances and hosting her radio show, Alyson makes the time to share her diabetes self-care journey with our Divabetic community.

Her new song and dedication to inspiring others have us dancing in the streets!! Keep shining, Alyson!

Please check out the wonderful celebration of Black Women in Fashion at Macy's. It features an incredible hat by my friend Evetta Petty, the owner of Harlem's Heaven. This magical, meaningful, glamorous, and empowering showcase of women of color's significant contributions to fashion during Black History Month is a must-see.

The window displays feature illustrations by Brooklyn-based artist Ashley Buttercup and fashion Madamette X, House of Aama, BruceGlen, Kaphill, Oak & Acorn -Only The Rebelles and High Fashion Thrift, and honor groundbreaking figures who paved the way in fashion despite facing significant challenges. 

I was particularly moved by the stories of influential women like Eunice Johnson, who broke racial barriers in media and fashion and worked tirelessly to uplift her community.

Evetta's hat is dedicated to Mildred Blount, a remarkable milliner famous for her stunning designs, including those for "Gone With The Wind."

Patti LaBelle inspired me to create the term "Divabetic" during a memorable Luther Vandross Tribute Concert in New York City back in 2003. Watching her shine on stage, radiant and dressed to impress, she shared, “I have diabetes. Diabetes doesn’t have me.” Her courage and sparkle made me reflect, “You’re not just a diabetic; you’re a DIVA.” That’s when the idea of "Divabetic" popped into my head. 

 Once I got home, I noted the word 'diabetic' in black ink and then creatively added a 'V' in red. It suddenly clicked that the 'V'symbolized Vandross and the divine divas he loved, like Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, and of course, Patti LaBelle. 

I realized that encouraging Luther’s fans to embrace a fresh perspective ("NEW ATTITUDE" on living with diabetes—just like Patti did—could transform health outcomes. While I don’t remember Luther discussing his diabetes openly, I knew he had a huge support system for his music, but when it came to managing his health, he faced it on his own. Tragically, he suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes at just 52. But you don’t have to follow that path or choose to walk it alone. It’s essential to seek help, connect with a caring community, and share your journey. 

After all, living with diabetes can be fabulous! 

For the past twenty years, Patti LaBelle has shown the world that you can GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS, and live well with diabetes. I’ve stayed on my mission to boost confidence in people's ability to manage their self-care, all thanks to the inspiration from Patti LaBelle.