31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Eighteen

Divabetic (Divabetic.org) presents a month-long showcase celebrating 10 years of diabetes podcasting. Each of the featured podcasts spotlights our favorite guests, topics, poems, games and/or musical inspiration. Enjoy!

On Day 18, we’re spotlighting Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast inspired by Fantasia Barrino Taylor  from February 2014.

We’re talking about “LABELS.” From Designer and Nutritional labels to the labels we assign to ourselves as well as others. Labels are a part of life. We use them to tell stories so we can better understand ourselves and others but often times labels can lead to branding and shame. Are the ‘labels’ in your life helping or hindering you to lead a healthy, happy life with diabetes?

https://www.instagram.com/p/CCEsn7onc7l/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Fantasia Barrino Taylors music inspires this episode of ‘Diabetes Late Nite’ podcast courtesy of SONY MUSIC. Fantasia has overcome many labels in her life in order to live out her dreams. She was a high school dropout, teenage mother and illiterate before being labeled as an “American Idol.”  We think Fantasia Barrino is a great DIVA example of why we should all think about “the person” or “the contents” behind the label.

Lorraine Brooks read her poem, ‘Plus or Minus’ on this podcast

Plus or Minus? by Lorraine Brooks

Don’t call me plus size. Why should I be?

I’m bigger than some, some are bigger than me.

A number is given to keep track of our size,

And what is the difference which one I must buy?

 

I’m not plus or minus, don’t label me so,

And don’t tell me into which stores I can go.

If I need an 18, and you need a 3,

You shouldn’t be thinking you’re better than me.

 

If you need a 20 and I need a 2,

I shouldn’t be thinking I’m better than you.

Why don’t we instead, embrace everyone’s curves

With all the respect and support one deserves.

 

Don’t label me by the disease I possess

Or anything else that might cause me distress.

I’ve spent most of my life with the label of “plus”,

The truth is that labels aren’t good for any of us.

 

Let’s labels shelves, and file cabinet drawers,

And signs on the ladies and mens bathroom doors.

A label is good if I need to explore

Where your office is located on the 5th floor.

 

And I need a label when I’m shopping for food

To know if tomatoes are pureed or stewed.

But don’t label me and my body, I ask,

And don’t make me wear this invisible mask…

 

Put labels on envelopes with return address,

Or telling me which one is lettuce, and which watercress.

Because in the end, I’m the same as you are,

And labels work better on bottles and jars.

 

But even if I am not your cup of tea

Don’t put labels on people…and please, not on me.

Diabetes Late Nite Inspired by Fantasia podcast guests: Charlie’s Angels of Outreach (Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Neva White MSN, CRNP, CDE and Susan Weiner RD, MS, CDE, CDN),Poet Lorraine Brooks, Catherine Schuller, Mama Rose Marie and Cindy from New York, NY.

 

Divabetic’s Late Nite podcast’s format is similar to popular late night talk shows and features topical monologues, celebrity interviews, games, prizes and music. Every month the show’s theme is inspired by a different celebrity to help listeners to stay happy and healthy. Popular show segments include: Hot Topics, Diagnosis To Diva!, Diabetes Numerology Game, Diabetes Time Machine Game and Mother Your Diabetes.

Our monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

 

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Sixteen

Divabetic (Divabetic.org) presents a month-long showcase celebrating 10 years of diabetes podcasting. Each of the featured podcasts spotlights our favorite guests, topics, poems, games and/or musical inspiration. Enjoy!

On Day 16, we’re spotlighting Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by the Pointer Sisters from December 2013.

“This podcast was a game changer for Divabetic,” says Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek.”It was the first time we featured music from various SONY music artists on our broadcast.”

 

The Pointer Sisters began their formal vocal training in their father’s church, The Church of God in West Oakland, California. June, Anita and Ruth Pointer achieved its greatest commercial success in 1983 with their biggest-selling album ever with Break Out. The Break Out album features the hits, Jump (For My Love), Automatic, Baby Come And Get It, I Need You, Neutron Dance and I’m So Excited.

The Pointer Sisters won several Grammy Awards,  American Music Awards and have been inducted onto the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic is ‘so excited’ to host this hourlong whirlwind of wellness inspired by the Pointer Sisters with superstar guests including music journalist Christian John Wikane, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Kathy Gold RN, CDE, Neva White MSN, CRNP, CDE, Evetta Petty, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Laura Laria and Lindsay from Baton Rouge, LA living with diabetes. Show highlights include Mr. Divabetic’s ‘Favorite Things’ list of great gift ideas to keep you happy and healthy.

 

 

Our monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence

 

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

How Gut Health Affects Mental Health

Have you ever felt “butterflies” in your stomach? This funny silly expression about our stomaches having the ability to feel anxiety is much more factual than you might think.

It’s been proven that our gastrointestinal tract is sensitive to emotion. Anger, anxiety, sadness, elation — all of these feelings can trigger symptoms in the gut.

Additionally, troubled stomaches and intestines send signals to our brains. Researchers say controlling the bacterial population of the gastrointestinal tract may help improve symptoms of mental disorders.

Current thinking in the field of neuropsychology and the study of mental health problems includes strong speculation that bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychological or neurological problems may also be associated with alternations in the microbiome reports PSYCOM.

READ MORE

Photo by Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona on Unsplash

 

We’re talking about ‘Diabetes & Mental Health Issues’ on Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with musical inspiration from the iconic Phyllis Hyman.

Phyllis Hyman was a sensational singer-songwriter and actress. Deep-voiced and statuesque, Phyllis Hyman sang with a life-affirming energy and emotional intensity found in few other female vocalists.

Unfortunately Phyllis Hyman committed suicide, leaving a suicide note behind in 1995. Part of the note read “I’m tired. I’m tired. Those of you that I love know who you are. May God bless you.”  It has been reported that she suffered from bi-polar disorder and depression and had a history of substance abuse which involved alcohol and cocaine. Who knows what accomplishments she would have achieved if she had lived longer?

Podcast guests include Alyson Williams, Queen Diva, Patricia Farrell PhD, Kristina Wolfe, ‘Tabouli: The Story of a Heart-Driven Diabetes Alert Dog’ Author Matt Pelicano, Elizabeth Vaughan Gallagher, Stacie Shonkwiler, and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach with Patricia Addie-Gentle.

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from The Essential Phyllis Hyman album courtesy of SONY Music.

31 Days Of Divabetic Podcasts: Day Six

Divabetic (Divabetic.org) presents a month-long showcase celebrating 10 years of diabetes podcasting. Each of the featured podcasts spotlights our favorite guests, topics, poems, games and/or musical inspiration. Enjoy!

On Day Six of ’31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts’ we’re spotlighting Studio d: R & B Icon: Meli’sa Morgan from September 2011. The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic interviews the Princess of R&B Soul Music, Meli’sa Morgan, an American vocalist and songwriter, who has worked with a number of major recording artists, including Whitney Houston and Chaka Kahn.

“I was so starstuck to interview her,” said Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek. “I’ve been a huge fan since I saw her open for Freddie Jackson in his concert in Rochester, New York. I love ‘Fool’s Paradise’.

https://youtu.be/BP3Wrbr2gFg

Meli’sa Morgan had a string of urban contemporary hits starting the mid–1980s through the mid–1990s. Morgan most notable songs includes her cover version of Prince’s “Do Me, Baby”, “Do You Still Love Me” and “Still in Love With You”.

Hear herstory and learn what inspires and empowers this diva to live healthy and well.

 

 

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, fun Virtual Scavenger Hunt on Zoom with special guest, Best-Selling Intimacy & Diabetes co-author, Janis Roszler LMFT, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND on Thursday, July 16, 2020, 7 – 7:35 PM, EST. 

Divabetic Podcast Listener Survey

Please take a minute to fill our quick survey to help us serve our community in a more meaningful way.

Listener Survey

Enter your name at the end of the survey to register for our random drawing to a featured guest on Divabetic’s Annual Diabetes Mystery Podcast, Kill Me Madam: Pecans, Pirates & Pistols’ on Tuesday, September 9, 2020, 6 PM, EST

Thank you for your loyal listenership for the past 10 years. We’re looking forward to informing and inspiring you in the years to come!

Divabetic Remembers Betty Wright

R&B singer, songwriter Betty Wright known for her hits “Clean Up Woman” and “Tonight is the Night,” died at the age of 66.

Steve Greenberg, president of S-Curve Records, confirmed the singer’s death came after a battle with cancer.

Betty Wright is best known for her 1971 hit song “Clean Up Woman,” a sassy tune about a woman who “cleans up” the men of women who neglect them.

The song’s rise to No. 6 on the Billboard singles charts sparked years of success for the singer that included winning a Grammy for Best R&B Song  for “Where is the Love” in 1976, a song she had co-written.

Just over a decade after her Grammy win, Wright would net another achievement — becoming the first woman to have a record on her own label achieve gold status.

In recent years, she mentored younger artists including Joss Stone. Her influence can be heard on Joss Stone’s The Soul Sessions especially in the stand out track, “Super Duper Love (Are You Diggin’ on Me?), Part 1. 

“I believe in legacy,” Wright told NPR in 2011 about her work as a mentor. “And I believe in making the radio sound better. If I gotta listen to it, I want it to sound good. So I’m tired of people disturbing the peace, getting on the radio and sounding a hot mess. If I can tell what the note really is, why let them go to the note they think it is? I’ve got that mama vibe. I don’t look at it with an ego.”

Divabetic Remembers Penny Marshall

Penny Marshall, best known for her acting role in the TV series “Laverne & Shirley” and for her many achievements as a film director such as “A League of Our Own,” “Big” or “Awakenings,” has died from complications from diabetes. She was 75.

Unfortunately I haven’t been able to learn what her complications were, or even what type of diabetes she had even after reading numerous stories about her death in various media outlets.  Usually I hate headlines like this without details because I think it’s a missed opportunity to educate and empower people about the disease but I feel Penny Marshall’s many professional accomplishments can offer sound advice for anyone who is feeling helpless, overwhelmed or frustrated about living with diabetes. 

Behind the camera, Penny Marshall wasn’t afraid to ask for help. As the the first woman in history to direct a film that grossed more than US$ 100 million with the 1988 comedy “Big,” starring Tom Hanks, Penny Marshall told Reuters in 2012 that her key to success behind the camera was she would try anything and ask for help when needed.

“I talked to my crew and said, ‘Just tell me the truth.’ I turned to the crews and asked them for their help,” she said..

People with diabetes often feel like there is too much to think about and do every day in order to take care of the condition. Sometimes you may find that you just need an outlet to express yourself and vent.  Reaching out to your diabetes care team and your other supporters about how you feel lets them help you get relief, gain support and even possibly learn strategies to cope with your feelings and the disease.

There will always be ups and downs in managing diabetes, but leaning on your diabetes care team and support network can help. Here are four basic tips for dealing with diabetes distress from Alicia McAuliffe-Fogarty, PhD, CPsychol

Give yourself a break. No one manages diabetes perfectly.

Talk to your diabetes care team about how you feel. Your health care providers can help by teaching you about diabetes, creating a diabetes treatment plan with you to best fit your lifestyle, working with you to set treatment goals, and referring you to a support group or mental health therapist.

Do one thing at a time and set goals you can reach. Small changes add up to big results. Try setting SMART goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Reward and congratulate yourself when you reach your goals.

Get support. You don’t have to do this alone. Most people say they manage their diabetes better when they get support.

After reading Penny Marshall’s obituary, I hope the general public sees that diabetes is a serious disease and not just a “touch of sugar.” Most people say they manage their diabetes better when they get support. Reach out. You don’t have to do this alone.


Enjoy December’s Diabetes Late Nite Available on Demand for Free

Enjoy December’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast featuring holiday music from Kelly Clarkson’s iconic Wrapped In Red album courtesy of SONY Music. Guests include Poet Lorraine Brooks, Kathy Gold  RN, MSN, CDE, FAADE, Glucose Delivery Necklace Co-Creator Kris Maynard, Dr. Sara (Mandy) Reece, PharmD, CDE, BC=ADM, BCACP, FAADE, Maria Sakowitz, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT, and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach. LISTEN NOW

Diva Beauty Tips with Beautyphonics CEO & “Beneath The Makeup” Author, Sue Perez 

We’re revving up our ‘DIVA’ quotient and making diabetes education dazzle on November’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with special guest, Beautyphonics CEO and “Beneath The Makeup” Author, Sue Perez on World Diabetes Day, Wednesday, November 14, 2018, 6 -7 PM, EST.

Ready to turn up  your inner ‘DIVA’? Check out Emmy Award Nominated TV Makeup Artist, Sue Perez‘s expert tips and tricks for the most common makeup problems exclusively for Divabetic:

Q: Why does my foundation look orange?

Sue Perez: Because it’s either not the right shade, your using too much or you are setting it with a pressed powder or bronzer. Makeup will naturally oxidize during the day. Only a sheer translucent powder needs to be used for everyday wear after your base makeup.

Q: Why doesn’t my makeup last?

Sue Perez: If you don’t hydrate your skin it could be drier. Our skin will absorb what you put on top of it to prevent moisture loss. Being a professional makeup artist I always use under makeup primers that will protect your foundation from vanishing during the day. The same is true of eye makeup. Using a eye shadow base will increase the longevity of your eye makeup

Q: Why does my eyeliner smudge?

Sue Perez: All pencil liners tend to move, as they are oil based. Try using a waterproof pencil or apply eye shadow over your liners to set them. Liner used in the water line will move more as we blink our eyes so decide if you need to use liner in that area of the eye. I outline a great easy makeup application in my book that all women can do for a daytime makeup.

Q: Why do some of shades of lipstick make my teeth look yellow?

Sue Perez: Try using cooler colors that have a blue undertone like pinks and reds. It will contrast with the color of your teeth and bring out the white. The same is true of your eyes. Using navy, royal blue or cobalt blue eyeliners, mascara and eye shadow will brighten the whites of our eyes.

Q: How often should I clean my makeup brushes?

Sue Perez: Once per month. Don’t soak your makeup brushes! This can make the hair fall out more from the ferule base of the brush. Just use a little hair shampoo diluted in water, rinse and squeeze out the excess water. Lay brushes flat on a dry surface or towel and let them air dry. 

Q: Why do I have to wash off my makeup?

Sue Perez: When I was working as an esthetician I got to see a lot of women with clogged pores and blackheads. I could tell which clients didn’t wash off their make up. Makeup and dirt left on the skin along with any makeup will get absorbed through your pores. Another reason why you should not workout wearing cosmetics either. I talk about this in my book and make recommendations.

Q: The official color of World Diabetes Day is blue. But blue eye shadow seems so 1960’s. What’s a diva to do? How do you recommend adding blue to your makeup?

Sue Perez: Blue is better on any eye color except blue! Brown eyed babes wear dark navy or royal blue of you like intensity. Gorgeous green eyes look best using violet, mauve, and lavender, which is blue based and will contrast the green /hazel and make their eyes appear greener. And for my blue-eyed gals they should use pinks, rose,  grey and charcoal smoky shades to contrast that often-fantastic sky blue eye color. ( Note: no one is born with black eyes, they “appear” black. )

Q: For a lot of women with diabetes tending to their self-care cuts into their time to put on their makeup. What tips can you offer to look fabulous without a lot of time?

Sue Perez: Working as a fast television makeup artist I have created short cuts to a quick makeup application. Being Emmy Nominated for my work inspired me to write about my experiences and share my knowledge with the world. In my book “Underneath the Makeup” I have a makeup application anyone can do using just a few products and makeup brushes in 15 minutes! My Book is for ALL women that truly want to understand and define their own unique beauty. You will learn the secrets that are easy and fun to understand so you can do your own makeup effortlessly. 

You can also view videos on Sue Perez’s website for more instruction at Beautyphonics.com where we created an instructional self care video that is great for women who have diabetes! 

We’re celebrating World Diabetes Day with musical inspiration from Aretha Franklin on Diabetes Late Nite scheduled for Wednesday, November 14, 2018, 6 -7:30 PM, EST.

There are many reasons that Aretha Franklin is the legend of legends, a groundbreaking singer with the fortitude to transcend race and genre, using that tremulous voice as the bulldozer to break down every barrier set up in her way.

Aretha’s own health journey is sparking a discussion about the uncertain connection between pancreatic cancer and diabetes. Long-standing diabetes can be considered a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. It causes a modest increase in risk of 1.5- to two-fold. Some of the other risk factors for pancreatic cancer include smoking, chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), family history of pancreatic cancer, obesity and certain genetic syndromes.

Guests include Poet Lorraine Brooks, Dr. Wendy Satin Rapaport, Diabetes Strong’s owner Christel Oerum, Beautyphonics CEO and “Beneath The Makeup”Author Suzanne Perez, Mama Rose Marie and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach.

Throughout the podcast we will be playing music from Aretha Franklin’s Aretha Franklin Sings the Great Diva Classics’ courtesy of SONY Music.

Diabetes Late Nite is a fast-paced, full-filled hour of diabetes education and wellness advice that encourages listeners to “laugh a little, learn a  lot.”

 

 

Divabetic Remembers Phyllis Hyman

We’re going ‘beyond the music’ to explore the chronic health hardships experienced by beloved musicians giving hope to others struggling with the same issues.

Singer and actress, Phyllis Hyman was best known for her soulful music during the late–1970s through the early–1990s including the songs; “You Know How to Love Me” (1979), “Living All Alone” (1986) and “Old Friend” (1991). Phyllis Hyman also performed on Broadway in the 1981 musical based on the music of Duke Ellington, Sophisticated Ladies, which ran from 1981 until 1983.

Let’s be clear, Phyllis Hyman was not living with diabetes but she was battling depression and other mental health issues throughout her life.

People with diabetes tend to suffer higher rates of depression according to research.  As many as one in five people with diabetes think about suicide, some on a daily basis. People considering suicide don’t always advertise their plans, but those with diabetes might be doing so by neglecting their diabetes management.And suicide or suicide attempts using insulin or other diabetes medications that lower blood sugar levels may not always be an easy-to-spot attempt at self-harm, they added.

Born in Pittsburgh in 1950, Phyllis Hyman was the eldest of seven children. She grew up in Philadelphia listening to a wide range of music from James Brown to Nina Simone via Karen Carpenter and Minnie Ripperton.

Her big break came when she gained the attention of the jazz drummer Norman Connors, who had something of a reputation for discovering female vocalists (including Jean Carne). In 1976, Phyllis Hyman’s sultry rendition of The Stylistics’ “Betcha By Golly Wow” proved a favorite on the R & B radio stations in the United States.

She then signed to the New-York-based Buddha record label and cut several fine tracks which became staple fare on an emerging radio format, the “quiet storm” – soul ballads played late into the night.

When she should have been soaring like the gifted songbird she was, Phyllis Hyman’s mental health issues took control of her life. She committed suicide a few days before her 45th birthday, a few hours before she was due to appear at the Apollo Theatre, in Harlem.

This is the story as reported by Ms. Hyman’s friend and manager Gelinda Garcia on Depressionmymuse.wordpress com:

“Phyllis had a philosophy about life, death and her body. Simply, she felt that because it was her life, it was also her death. Because it was her body, she had the right to do with it as she chose, including leaving it behind when she was ready to.

Although she was not a member of the Hemlock Society, she was very clear that suicide was indeed an option for those whose lives could not be managed successfully because there was just too much pain : emotionally, physically and spiritually.

About ten years earlier, Phyllis was diagnosed as being “bi-polar”, a medical term for someone who suffers from the dis-ease of manic-depression. As she got older, her disease became more and more difficult for her to manage. She elected not to use pharmaceutical medication. She elected to self medicate. Her self medication distorted her disease more and more, until she felt helpless about ever being able to recover from it.

It is important to note that she had attempted suicide twice before she actually committed suicide. Because she and I talked about suicide as an option to living a painful life, I was not surprised by her death. I was and am still very sorrowful that she actually made the decision to ascend June 30, 1995.“

“As an artist, she sang her desperation. “She has a song that is a soundtrack of her entire life, ‘You Just Don’t Know What I’ve Been Going Through,’ ” said Frank Sheffield, Hyman’s long-time friend who managed the jazz station at Hampton (Va.) University, where Hyman often appeared.

The connection point between diabetes and suicide is depression. About 16 percent of the general population experience depression, but the percentage is nearly doubled among those with diabetes. 

In Everyday Health Ed Cook, who was diagnosed with diabetes 38 years ago gradually lost his vision and then his driver’s license, his business, and most recently, one toe to amputation, depression infiltrated his life. A religious person, he struggled against thoughts of suicide and sought help.

“The complications led me to severe depression,” Cook admitted. He entered treatment, which included anti-depressants for a time, and he now regularly attends both therapy and support groups. “It helps to know I am not alone,” he said. “Diabetes is not the end of the world.”

But Cook also acknowledges that his battle is not over. Periodically, he still feels some despair as he continues to face the screenings and health assessments, such as vascular checkups, that are intended to catch complications before they do too much damage. Still, through prayer and therapy, he said, he’s come to see that even now he has a role and a purpose. “I try to be an encouragement to people,” he said.

Are You Feeling Suicidal? 

No matter how much pain you’re experiencing right now, you’re not alone. Some of the finest, most admired, needed, and talented people have been where you are now. Feeling suicidal is not a character defect, and it doesn’t mean that you are crazy, or weak, or flawed. It only means that you have more pain than you can cope with right now.

The pain of depression can be treated and hope can be renewed. No matter what your situation, there are people who need you, places where you can make a difference, and experiences that can remind you that life is worth living. It takes real courage to face death and step back from the brink. You can use that courage to face life, to learn coping skills for overcoming depression, and for finding the strength to keep going. Remember:

  1. Your emotions are not fixed – they are constantly changing. How you feel today may not be the same as how you felt yesterday or how you’ll feel tomorrow or next week.
  2. Your absense would create grief and anguish in the lives of friends and loved ones.
  3. There are many things you can still accomplish in your life.
  4. There are sights, sounds, and experiences in life that have the ability to delight and lift you – and that you would miss.
  5. Your ability to experience pleasurable emotions is equal to your ability to experience distressing emotions.

Mental health conditions such as depression, and bipolar disorder are treatable with changes in lifestyle, therapy, and medication. Most people who seek help can improve their situation and recover.

Take these immediate steps: Promise not to do anything right now, avoid drugs and alchohol, make your home safe, and don’t keep these suicidal feelings to yourself.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. 1-800273-8255

Off-Off Broadway Soul Divas Night Out Presents Strength of a Woman: A Phyllis Hyman Tribute Experience Starring Queen Diva is an intimate 75 minute concert that is a celebration of Phyllis Hyman’s musical legacy. Featuring Sonja Elise Freeman, ASCAP Singer/Songwriter, Author, Teacher, Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention Advocate will sing her favorite songs to celebrate the life and musical legacy of the Legendary Songstress Phyllis Linda Hyman. BUY TICKETS

Join us for the inaugural Fandross Festival presented by the Vandross Family Estate and Divabetic celebrating the musical legacy of Luther Vandross and raising awareness for the prevention of diabetes health-related complications such as stroke on Saturday, May 12, 2018, 6:30 -9:30 PM at SVA Theater. BUY TICKETS 

 

We’re talking about ‘Diabetes, Sleep & Mental Health Issues’ on Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with musical inspiration from the iconic Phyllis Hyman. Guests include Alyson Williams, Queen Diva, Patricia Farrell PhD, Kristina Wolfe, ‘Tabouli: The Story of a Heart-Driven Diabetes Alert Dog’ Author Matt Pelicano, Elizabeth Vaughan Gallagher, Stacie Shonkwiler, and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach with Patricia Addie-Gentle. Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from ‘The Essential Phyllis Hyman’ album courtesy of SONY Music.

Soara-Joye Ross Returns to Stage in ‘Rock and Roll Man: The Alan Freed Story

The fabulous Soara-Joye Ross doesn’t let diabetes dim her dazzle! 

She’s living with type 1 diabetes and currently starring as R & B singer, LaVern Baker in the hit musical drama, ‘Rock and Roll Man: The Alan Freed Story’ at Bucks County Playhouse.

Delores ‘LaVern’ Baker (November 11, 1929 – March 10, 1997) was an American rhythm-and-blues singer who had several hit records on the pop chart in the 1950s and early 1960s?  Her most successful records were “Tweedle Dee” (1955), “Jim Dandy” (1956), and “I Cried a Tear” (1958). She was among the first eight recipients of the Pioneer Award from the Rhythm and Blues Foundation and became the second female solo artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, following Aretha Franklin in 1987.

Baker told the audience at  the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, “Regardless of how old you are when you get this, it’s still good, baby.”

LaVern Baker had a stroke in the early 1990’s, and complications from type 2 diabetes forced her to have her legs amputated in 1995. But she returned to performing in 1996 with an undiminished voice and an indomitable spirit.

“Rock and Roll Man: The Alan Freed Story” is being produced at the Playhouse by Robyn Goodman, Alexander Fraser, Stephen Kocis, Josh Fiedler in association with Sharon A. Carr and Caiola Productions.

This high energy musical uncovers the true story of Alan Freed — the Father of Rock and Roll. It’s the 1950s and a cocky young DJ discovers the music that all America wants to hear — except no radio station will play it. Pursued by the notorious J. Edgar Hoover for promoting this unwholesome genre, Alan perseveres — unearthing the sound of a new generation through pure guts, grit, and determination. Featuring original songs and classic tunes by legends like Little Richard, Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis, this world premiere will have you rocking around the clock! BUY TICKETS 

Recently Soara-Joye Ross started wearing an insulin pump that she named “Black Panther” after a stint performing in the Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s production of ‘Sister Act’. Soara-Joye says her insulin delivery device aka ‘the pump’ has been a godsend for her managing her diabetes especially with such a rigorous performance schedule.

“With the insulin pump I can suspend my insulin delivery which is extremely helpful if I’m constantly on stage like I was when I was performing as Deloris Van Cartier ( in the musical, ‘Sister Act’),” she says.

Enjoy this episode of Diabetes Late Nite with guest, Soara-Joye Ross and hear how she manages her type 1 diabetes like a diva! LISTEN NOW 

MAKEOVER YOUR DIABETES! Are you curious about why amputations occur? Learn what you need to do if you do have a diabetic foot ulcer so that it heals and doesn’t progress to amputation from the Diabetes Council. READ MORE