27. Billie Jean King
You’ve probably heard of the world-renowned tennis champion Billie Jean King. But did you know she has diabetes, too?
Her life with the disease is inspiring and a testament to the importance of diabetes awareness. Although she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2007, she continues to live an active life.
The tennis superstar is an advocate for diabetes research. While battling diabetes herself, she has become a motivational speaker for people across the country.
She has even published an autobiography called All In, which documents her life with the disease and encourages others to make lifestyle changes to prevent the condition.
26. David “Boomer” Wells
David “Boomer” Wells was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes on March 18, 2007, and was determined to beat it.
He immediately shifted to a healthier lifestyle, cutting carbs, sugar, alcohol, and fast food from his diet.
The former big leaguer enjoyed a long career as a pitcher, pitching for the Dodgers from 1987 to 1997 before retiring.
Wells, a native of California, also played for the Padres for two and a half seasons before announcing his retirement from baseball in 2007.
Although his pitching days are over, he embraced life with the Perfect 33 Foundation. The nonprofit organization supports young athletes, military families, and children of servicemen.
25. Paula Deen
Paula Deen was first diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2009. She kept her condition a secret for three years ago but later revealed it.
She teamed up with a multi-million-dollar partnership with pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, a company specializing in diabetes care.
Deen has long been known for her decadent recipes and a big appetite for fried foods. The high-fat content recipes she’s known for have raised some concerns among those with diabetes.
High saturated fat content is harmful to the body because it increases the chances of inflammation and insulin resistance.
In addition to high-fat content, other risk factors include obesity, lack of physical activity, and family history.
Deen dropped 40 lbs., and went on to create healthier recipes.
