18. Billy Porter
Actor Billy Porter was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in February 2007. A few months after, he was diagnosed with HIV.
Although he did keep his illnesses a secret, he is now more vocal about them. After more than a decade of keeping mum, he reveals that he goes to visit his doctor regularly to monitor his health.
He is aware of what’s going on in his body. He has never felt so healthy in his life. His optimistic view on his health has raised awareness of illnesses such as diabetes and HIV.
The fact that he has been living with diabetes for more than a decade just proves that the illness is manageable.
17. S. Epatha Merkerson
Law and Order star, S. Epatha Merkerson, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at age 50. Her family has a history of diabetes.
Her father and grandmother died of illnesses associated with the disease. She considers her diagnosis as a wake-up and has embarked on a healthier lifestyle.
Merkerson’s diabetes diagnosis has spurred a movement to raise awareness about the disease and to promote healthy living.
She has since worked with Merck on America’s Diabetes Challenge: Get to Your Goals campaign. The initiative helps people with diabetes find the support they need to manage their disease and live a healthy life.
16. Drew Carey
Drew Carey was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2010. The diagnosis compelled him to drop more than 80 lbs.
He weighed more than 260 but was able to lose and sustain his weight by living a healthier lifestyle. He shifted to a healthy diet that’s devoid of carbs and sugar.
Carey’s healthy lifestyle has helped him wean off his diabetes medications. He eats a healthy diet that is devoid of carbs and starch.
The game show host follows a very strict diet. He also exercises regularly to stay healthy. All his efforts were well worth it since he was able to stop taking medicines for his diabetes.
