Happy Galentine’s Day! We’re thrilled to launch the 2nd annual Love Across Life Stages of Diabetes Survey for Women in partnership with DiabetesSisters.
TAKE THE SURVEY
By sharing your experiences, you play a vital role in shaping the future of diabetes care and support.
With approximately 15 million women in the U.S. navigating the challenges of diabetes every day, your stories are invaluable. Our survey aims to highlight the unique experiences of women managing diabetes, providing insights that can enhance care, support, and encouragement.
To celebrate your contributions and the strength of our community, we’re excited to announce that two lucky respondents will win a $50 gift card, perfect for enjoying lunch with a Galentine of your choice! Stay tuned for the results in March, where we’ll share new insights and approaches to managing diabetes with love and resilience. Your voice matters!
The Co-authors of Divabetic’s ebook, Sweet Romance: A Woman’s Guide To Love & Intimacy With Diabetes,Dr. Janis Roszler PhD, LMFT, CDCES, LD/N, FAND, and Donna Rice, MBA, BSN, RN, CDCES, FADCES, help readers navigate the emotions related to a diabetes diagnosis and issues related to intimacy, fertility, and menopause with the people they care about the most.
It is a privilege for Max Szadek to be featured in the NAACP Image Awards-nominated documentary Luther: Never Too Much, where he shares his story of discoveringLuther Vandross after experiencing a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes.
He hopes to inspire others to proactively avoid a similar health crisis through advocacy.
Remember, if you notice any signs of a stroke, don’t hesitate to seek help right away – swift action can greatly impact your recovery.
Let’s look out for each other! It’s essential to seek help, connect with a caring community, and share your journey.
After surviving a stroke, she continues to bring joy to her audience behind the microphone and camera.
SAVE THE DATE: Divabetic Holiday Outreach Program in partnership with the Frazier Family Coalitionat Alumni Hall at Thomas Jefferson University Hosptial, 1020 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, 11 AM – 1:30 PM.
Enjoy a Glam More, Fear Less Fashion Show, Cooking Demonstration, Guest Speakers, Chair Yoga Exercises, and Community Support. Free Admission.
Through the Divabetic (Divabetic.Org) programs, podcasts, and videos, we’ve spread awareness and positivity to hundreds of thousands of men and women.
Romantic relationships play an important role in our everyday lives. But when diabetes enters the picture, it can complicate even the most loving and open relationships. Many people don’t know that diabetes can impact physical and emotional intimacy. And intimacy-related issues can be especially difficult to discuss with a partner or a health care provider. But don’t let diabetes hinder the romance.
Divabetic’s Sweet Romance ebook series is here to give you practical information and expert advice to tackle this sensitive subject. These comprehensive, interactive guides cover everything you need to know to enjoy a fulfilling sexual and emotional life despite the challenges of diabetes. BUY NOW
What happened to Little Bo Peep’s lost sheep? We’re reimagining the lives of lesser-known characters in popular nursery rhymes.
Enjoy this short about the adventures and misadventures of Little Bo Peep’s sheep. Discover where they went, what they did after leaving the farm, and Little Bo Peep’s reaction.
As someone who wandered off ‘the farm’ when I was younger, I can testify to why traveling is worthwhile. Back in the late 80s, I left Rochester, NY, and headed to a place I could barely find on a globe: Santa Cruz, CA. My journey took me to places I could have never imagined.
It was a leap into the unknown, just like those sheep. They likely roamed far beyond the grassy hills, encountering adventures and learning about the world in ways they’d never imagined.
Life, much like those sheep’s adventures, is about venturing out and finding your own path. Every journey shapes you, just as each twist and turn of their adventure shaped the sheep. It’s okay to wander off a bit, as long as you find your way back home.
In “The Wizard of Oz,” Dorothy’s quest to return home to Kansas highlights a central theme of identity. It’s a reminder that our sense of self is often tied to the places we cherish.
Interestingly, U.S. Census data shows Americans have moved less frequently over the decades. In 1965, more than 20% of the population changed homes. By 2000, it was just over 16%; in 2019, that number fell to under 10%.
This trend reflects a common yearning for a place to call home. Dorothy’s journey beautifully symbolizes that home isn’t just a location; it’s where we feel we truly belong.`
I was talking to a friend with type 1 diabetes yesterday, and he shared an experience with me that highlighted the challenges of managing diabetes. His insurance company had miscoded his request for insulin, which caused his pharmacy to be unable to refill his prescription. After hours of phone calls, a trip to the Emergency Room, and a lot of frustration, he finally resolved the issue.
This situation emphasized how difficult and frustrating it can be to advocate for one’s health with diabetes. Many people assume that individuals with diabetes should be able to manage their condition without any problems. Unfortunately, empathy, compassion, and encouragement for those living with diabetes are rarely expressed. Instead, there’s an assumption that it’s “no big deal.”
Statistics show that many people struggle with medication compliance, even with oral medications. It raises the question: why don’t others recognize the courage, determination, dedication, and perseverance it takes to manage diabetes day in and day out, year after year? While I don’t have an answer to that rhetorical question, I do recommend giving yourself a pat on the back, encouraging yourself, and appreciating the hard work you put into managing your health.
Remember, it starts with you. Take a minute to love yourself, and let this post be a reminder to you that we see you, recognize your commitment to your health, and love you too. You are amazing!!!
Sweet Romance: A Woman’s Guide to Love and Intimacy with Diabetes, book one in the series, is your key to a happy, healthy intimate life with diabetes. BUY NOW
We had a great time on the 2018 TripAdvisor award-winning ‘Traveler’s Choice music tour that celebrated London’s vibrant music history! Exploring the city that gave rise to legendary bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bad Finger, and others was nothing short of magical.
Our small group, full of rock music enthusiasm (I was the only one asking about the Spice Girls!), made stops at iconic locations—like the cozy Blues bar where Amy Winehouse poured her heart into her songwriting and cleared tables when she had writer’s block.
The energy in that space was palpable!
I created two Amy Winehouse sculptures using discarded water and soda bottles, yarn and Target bags (before they removed their Pride merchandise from store shelves and ended their DEI ( Diversity and Inclusion) program.
We also visited The Ships pub, where Jimi Hendrix once made a memorable exit (he vomitted outside the door) —such fun to think about the history that unfolded in these spots.
Did you know a JAMA Neurology study found a possible link between walking 10,000 steps per day and a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease, 13 types of cancer, stroke, and heart failure?
Our guide, Alan, a professional actor and musician, was simply fantastic! His passion for music and storytelling brought London’s rock ‘n’ roll scene alive.
FUN FACT: The original recording of the Beatle’s iconic song “Hey Jude” contains the F-bomb in the background. The Beatles decided to leave the word in the song.
As we strolled through the bustling streets of Soho and Mayfair, we soaked up tales of musical greats like David Bowie, Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne and Elton John, feeling inspired by their legacies.
FUN FACT: You can hear a phone ringing at the end of Ziggy Stardust’s original “Life On Mars” recording. What’s strange about it is that the studio line was an unlisted number, so someone misdialed during the recording. The cost of recording tape was expensive; they didn’t re-record it.
We traveled down Canterbury Street, where Sharon Osbourne’s father, Don Arden‘s music management office was located and 3 Savile Row, where the Beatles performed an outdoor concert on the rooftop.
Walking at least 30 minutes most day of the week can help lower blood pressure. Walking also improves the body’s ability to use insulin, the hormone that lowers blood sugar.
It was funny to think that just the night before, we had wandered these same streets in search of late-night food after enjoying The Devil Wears Prada musical starring Vanessa Williams.
The delightful discovery of following in the footsteps of music legends made our experience extra special!
We visited the location of the Trident Studios, a British recording facility located at 17 St Anne’s Court in London’s Soho district between 1968 and 1981.
Queen recorded their first song there using the free studio time booked by Paul McCartney. We also visited Regent Sound studios, first used to record jingles, then by bands like the Rolling Stones.
One of the standout moments from my incredible trip to London, where I was there to promote the premiere of the Luther: Never Too Muchdocumentary in UK theaters, was my delightful interview on Solar Radio with my good friend Richard Marzetti, the host of Soul Life.
During our chat, Richard posed a fantastic question about my all-time favorite Luther song.
Without hesitation, I chose Crazy Love from Luther Vandross‘s brilliant album, Secret Love.
This track is not only a breathtaking showcase of his unparalleled artistry but also evokes a flood of wonderful memories from our days working on that album together. I can still picture the vibrant recording sessions at the Hit Factory, the unforgettable photo shoot at Milk Studios, and the thrilling promotional tour across the US and UK. Those were truly special times!
I was also excited to introduce Seveda Williams, the CEO of FANDROSS and Luther’s niece, to Richard. Seveda surprised Richard with a fantastic gift bag from FANDROSS that was bursting with goodies for vinyl enthusiasts—think classic records, a stylish FANDROSS t-shirt, and a chic tote bag!
I hope you all enjoy listening to our Soul Life interview with Richard Marzetti on Mixcloud!
In 2006, just a year after starting Divabetic, Luther Vandross‘s mother, the late Mary Ida Vandross, joined Max “Mr. Divabetic” Szadek to tape a public service announcement.
What a great lady! Divabetic is national diabetes nonprofit with a mission to empower people to manage their diabetes with confidence, knowledge and inspiration.
Max Szadek shares his experience of being featured in the NAACP Image Awards-nominated documentary Luther: Never Too Much, and his story of discovering Luther Vandross after experiencing a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes.
Max hopes to inspire others to proactively avoid a similar health crisis through advocacy.
Remember, if you notice any signs of a stroke, don’t hesitate to seek help right away – swift action can greatly impact your recovery.
Let’s look out for each other! It’s essential to seek help, connect with a caring community, and share your journey. Philadelphia’s beloved WDAS-FM Radio personality, Patty Jackson, is a true inspiration! After surviving a stroke, she continues to bring joy to her audience behind the microphone and camera.
SAVE THE DATE: Divabetic Holiday Outreach Program at Alumni Hall at Thomas Jefferson University Hosptial,1020 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, 11 AM – 1:30 PM. Enjoy a Glam More, Fear Less Fashion Show, Cooking Demonstration, Guest Speakers, Chair Yoga Exercises, and Community Support. Free Admission. ‘
Through the Divabetic (Divabetic.Org) programs, podcasts, and videos, we’ve spread awareness and positivity to hundreds of thousands of men and women.
Divabetic’s 9th Annual Mystery podcast, Tomorrow Is Not On The Menu, is packed with loads of diabetes information and self-care tips wrapped up in a cozy mystery radio drama.
The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic, lands his to-die-for job as a caterer for the nation’s hottest health guru, Wendy Wattage’s Wellness Retreat on the Jersey Shore.
Everything seems low pressure and low calorie until the body of the nasty food critic, Marilyn Macaroni, is found stabbed to death with one of Max’s new chef knives. Now he’s the prime suspect in a big, fat murder investigation!
Can he and his team of friends, diabetes educators, and his nosey Italian mother, Mama Rose Marie, find the killer before the police arrive? Or will he be trading his fruit suit for coveralls with stripes? Weight loss murder never tasted so good.
Starring Mr. Divabetic, Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, Mama Rose Marie, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDCES, Maryann Horst Nicolay MEd, NTDR, Kathie Dolgin aka ‘High Voltage,’ Seveda Williams, Catherine Schuller, Dave Jones, and Lorraine Brooks. Produced by Leisa Chester Weir. Special thanks to our colleague, the multi-talented Wendy Radford.
Divabetic Mystery Podcast’s goals are: Encourage people with diabetes to problem-solve issues related to their self-care, like their favorite TV detectives (ie. write things down, search for clues and share information with your healthcare collaborators and ask questions) Manage diabetes as a team rather than go it alone.
Divabetic’s 9th Annual Mystery podcast, Tomorrow Is Not On The Menu, is packed with loads of diabetes information and self-care tips wrapped up in a cozy mystery radio drama.
Pattern Management is a skill that you can help you to manage your diabetes like a diva! The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic and Neva White, the leader of the Divabetic Club – Philadelphia discuss the basics and benefits of Pattern Management. Free Divabetic Club meeting mixing diabetes education, support and style advice have been presented in New York, NY, Cleveland, OH and Philadelphia, PA.
Divabetic will partner with the Frazier Family Coalition to present a free program in November 2025 at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.
Romantic relationships play an important role in our everyday lives. But when diabetes enters the picture, it can complicate even the most loving and open relationships. Many people don’t know that diabetes can impact physical and emotional intimacy. And intimacy-related issues can be especially difficult to discuss with a partner or a health care provider. But don’t let diabetes hinder the romance. Divabetic’s Sweet Romance ebook series is here to give you practical information and expert advice to tackle this sensitive subject. These comprehensive, interactive guides cover everything you need to know to enjoy a fulfilling sexual and emotional life despite the challenges of diabetes
FLASHBACK: Phyllis Kornbluth talks about how her participation in the Divabetic Support Meeting, have help changed her life for the better.
Enjoy this animated scene from Divabetic’s 10th Annual Original Mystery podcast, Murder Plain As Vanilla, streaming on YouTube, Spotify, iTunes, and BlogTalkRadio.
Divabetic mystery podcasts are not just for mystery lovers. It’s an engaging way to learn about diabetes and self-care. Amidst colorful characters, thrilling adventures, and delightful settings, we offer health and wellness tips to help you take charge of your diabetes self-care. We also promote the idea of thinking like a detective when you experience unexpected blood sugar fluctuations. Look for clues, gather data, talk to witnesses (friends, co-workers, and family members ), and present your ideas to healthcare professionals for solutions. A team approach to managing your diabetes is also a great idea.
I’m excited to update you about my journey in diabetes and stroke advocacy! Being featured in the documentary Luther: Never Too Much truly reignited my passion for this important cause. It reminded me how vital it is to gather and support those at risk or affected by diabetes, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.
I took the opportunity to share my personal experience regarding Luther’s health crisis, hoping it could spark a meaningful discussion about the health risks of mismanaged diabetes.
My message to Luther fans is to listen to your body with the same intensity as you listen to your favorite Luther songs.
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be partnering with the Frasier Family Coalition for Stroke Education & Prevention and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital to present a free diabetes outreach program during National Diabetes Month this coming November!
On the same day I confirmed this program, I had the chance to connect with Patty Jackson, an incredible radio personality and stroke survivor. Patty has been a steadfast supporter of my efforts with Divabetic outreach for the past twenty years. She has consistently uplifted our mission through interviews and social media collaborations.
I’m genuinely grateful to everyone who has been a part of my journey in diabetes outreach. Together, we’re making a difference!
