mismanaged diabetes

01/19/202501/19/2025

WDAS-FM Promotes Divabetic’s Free Program in November 2025

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!

01/12/202501/12/2025

Remembering Levi Stubbs

Singer Levi Stubbs‘s life journey serves as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale. His iconic contributions to music, particularly through the Four Tops, highlight the beauty and power of artistic expression. Yet, beneath the glittering surface of fame lies a stark reality that many artists and fans overlook—the fragility of health.

The alarming statistics surrounding strokes and health disparities in communities of color are especially poignant in the context of Stubbs’s life. Despite his immense talent and success, he faced significant health challenges, including prostate cancer and diabetes, which ultimately overshadowed his musical legacy. It’s a bittersweet reminder that even the most beloved figures are not immune to the realities of life, and the pressures of a demanding career can often lead to neglecting personal well-being.

The statements from those close to him, like Norman Whitfield, resonate deeply. They remind us that health should be prioritized, not just as a personal responsibility but as a communal one, particularly in conversations about race and health equity. The struggles of Levi Stubbs, Luther Vandross, Ella Fitzgerald, LaVerne Baker and Angela Bofill illuminate a critical narrative that transcends music, urging us to listen—both to the voices of these phenomenal artists and to our own bodies.

As fans, we often celebrate the triumphs of our favorite celebrities, yet we can easily forget the personal battles they may be facing. It’s essential to draw lessons from their stories, recognizing that health should never be taken for granted. Rather than focus solely on their public personas, we need to consider their holistic journeys, full of both shining moments and difficult struggles.

Levi Stubbs‘s legacy is a blend of soulful melodies and a reminder of the importance of health awareness. His approach to singing—living each song deeply—could be extended to how we approach our lives and well-being. It’s an invitation to not only appreciate the music but also engage in self-care and health advocacy, ensuring that we don’t repeat the patterns of neglect that can come with the pursuit of success.

In honoring his memory, let us strive to embrace a fuller understanding of health—one that encompasses not just the physical, but also the emotional and communal aspects of our well-being.

Ultimately, we can ensure that the voices we cherish continue to inspire us long after their passings.

05/25/2023

Divabetic Podcast on Stroke

On Divabetic’s podcast, Clarence Waldron shares his stroke, recovery, working as Senior Writer and Editor from Jet Magazine, and his memories of legends Luther Vandross and Aretha Franklin.

Twenty years ago, Clarence interviewed Luther’s mother, Mrs. Mary Ida Vandross, for Jet Magazine after Luther suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes.

When I was growing up Jet Magazine was everywhere — barbershops, salons, and waiting rooms. The digest-size magazine featured pop culture stories, What’s On TV, Wedding Announcements and Anniversaries, the (in)famous Jet Beauty of the Week, and Jet’s Top 20 Singles.

Clarence’s story is an excellent reminder of why it’s essential to ACT F.A.S.T. if you or a loved one is experiencing a stroke. The acronym FAST (Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time) has been used by the American Stroke Association, American Heart Association, and others to educate the public on detecting stroke symptoms.

Earlier treatment results in a greater chance of recovery, a reduced likelihood of permanent disability, and a lesser need for extensive rehabilitation.

You’ll quickly hear Clarence’s upbeat attitude and ferocious appetite for music and divas have served him well during his recovery.

Throughout this podcast, we feature music from Aretha Franklin’s Get It Right album and Luther Vandross’s Live At Radio City Music Hall 2003 20th Anniversary Edition album courtesy of SONY Music.

Get It Right is Aretha Franklin’s twenty-ninth studio album, released in 1983 by Arista Records. It was produced by Luther Vandross, following his successful teaming with the singer for the Gold-certified album, Jump to It. Album highlights include I Wish It Would Rain, I Got Your Love, and Every Girl Wants My Guy.