World Diabetes Day occurs annually on November 14. This important day raises awareness and provides crucial health resources. Eight inspiring Black women demonstrate that diabetes doesn’t define your life story.
Understanding Diabetes in the African American Community
Two primary types of diabetes affect millions of Americans nationwide. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder affecting insulin production. Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance, causing glucose buildup in the bloodstream.
Statistics reveal a concerning trend within the African American community. In 2024, 12.4% of African Americans received diabetes diagnoses. These women’s stories provide hope and practical guidance for managing the condition.
Halle Berry’s Life-Threatening Diagnosis Led to Lifestyle Changes
The Oscar-winning actress discovered her condition in 1989 during a frightening incident. Berry collapsed on the set of “Living Dolls” unexpectedly. She remained in a coma for seven days afterward.
Reports initially conflicted about whether Berry had Type 1 or Type 2. However, she has confirmed in recent years that she manages Type 2 diabetes. The 59-year-old actress continues thriving in Hollywood despite her diagnosis.
Patti LaBelle Collapsed on Stage Before Learning the Truth
The legendary singer experienced a dramatic health crisis in 1994. LaBelle collapsed during a performance while touring. She initially attributed the incident to exhaustion from her demanding schedule.
Medical tests revealed she had Type 2 diabetes at age 50. The diagnosis didn’t surprise her completely, as it ran in her family. Both her mother and aunt had previously battled the condition successfully.
Grammy Winner Takes Control Through Diet and Medication
LaBelle hadn’t experienced any prior warning symptoms before her collapse. Nevertheless, she immediately took charge of her health. The 81-year-old singer changed her diet dramatically.
Additionally, she maintains strict adherence to her prescribed medications. Her proactive approach has allowed her to continue performing. LaBelle remains an inspiration for managing diabetes through lifestyle modifications.
Vanessa Williams Advocates for Type 1 Diabetes Awareness
The former Miss America manages Type 1 diabetes successfully. Williams received her diagnosis as an adult, which is uncommon. Most people discover Type 1 diabetes during childhood or adolescence.
The 62-year-old “Ugly Betty” star refuses to let diabetes limit her. She actively supports diabetes research through charitable donations. In 2018, Williams headlined the StayWell Guam Diabetes Foundation gala.
Tami Roman’s Journey With Type 2 and Body Image
The reality star faced a prediabetes diagnosis in 2008. She received her full Type 2 diabetes diagnosis five years later. Roman, now 55, has openly discussed her health challenges.
Managing diabetes required significant dietary changes for the television personality. Unfortunately, her weight loss triggered body dysmorphia struggles. She’s become more transparent about her journey in recent years.
Viola Davis Prevented Full Diabetes Through Quick Action
The acclaimed actress received a prediabetes diagnosis around 2016. Davis has a significant family history of Type 2 diabetes. Two sisters currently manage the condition, and a great aunt died from complications.
The 60-year-old immediately implemented preventive lifestyle changes. She became more mindful about nutrition and increased physical activity. Davis narrated “A Touch of Sugar,” a documentary about the diabetes healthcare epidemic.
Sherri Shepherd Manages Diabetes With Modern Technology
The talk show host has lived with Type 2 diabetes since 2007. Shepherd, 58, made typical lifestyle adjustments including diet modifications. She also incorporated more regular physical activity into her routine.
Furthermore, she uses glucose monitors to track blood sugar levels carefully. Recently, Shepherd began taking the GLP-1 drug Mounjaro at low dosage. She shares her journey openly with Instagram followers.
Oprah Winfrey’s Prediabetes Battle and Weight Loss Journey
The media mogul revealed her prediabetic status six years ago. Winfrey, 71, shared the news in a letter to Weight Watchers members. Her mother, Vernita, had Type 2 diabetes previously.
Before using GLP-1 medication this year, Winfrey tried numerous diets. Her weight fluctuated publicly throughout her television career. She eventually achieved stable blood sugar and blood pressure readings.
Gabourey Sidibe Chose Surgery After Family Diagnosis
The actress and her brother both received Type 2 diabetes diagnoses. Sidibe feared potential complications like amputation from the disease. She underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery in May 2016.
The 42-year-old’s procedure reduced her stomach size by half. This surgery helps control portion sizes and blood sugar levels. Sidibe’s proactive decision demonstrates the importance of early intervention.
