Tag: Never Too Much

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Happy Birthday, Luther Vandross!

This May, join FANDROSS in Los Angeles, CA, for two exciting Mother’s Day weekend events honoring Luther Vandross.

On Saturday, May 10, 2025 explore Luther’s Artistry and Elegance costume exhibit at the GRAMMY Museum featuring trivia, rare photos, memorabilia, and a panel discussion with Max Szadek, Luther’s former assistant.

On Sunday night, May 11, 2025 enjoy Terry Steele‘s wonderful Luther Tribute Concerts in Bel Air at Vibrato Grill, in Bel Air, CA with special guest Pat Lacy-Aiken at 6 and 8:30 PM.

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 discovering Luther 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.

Philadelphia’s beloved WDAS 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.

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Leslie, Divabetic, Living Well with Type 1 Diabetes

I had a wonderful time running into my dear friend, Divabetic type 1, Leslie, at Martha Redbone‘s brilliant tribute to author bell hooks and her inspiring poetry, featuring my friend, Keith Anthony Fluitt at the Apollo Theater. It brought back fond memories of Leslie attending our free monthly Divabetic Club meetings at the McBurney YMCA in New York two decades ago.

Leslie has been navigating life with type 1 diabetes for over 30 years now, and seeing her again filled my heart with joy. It really transported me back to those vibrant days when Leslie would join our free Divabetic Club meetings at the McBurney YMCA in New York nearly two decades ago.

Seeing her again was such a joy! Leslie has always been a beacon of light and comfort for others living with diabetes, sharing her wisdom and positivity at our gatherings. I fondly remember the impact of Divabetic’s outreach, especially when we hosted ongoing free meetings for women affected by diabetes across New York, Philadelphia, and Cleveland.

This year has been a whirlwind as I balance running Divabetic, supporting Luther Vandross‘s legacy and documentary, creating my art, and managing various commitments while touring with Itzhak Perlman.

Catching up with Leslie was a refreshing reminder to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey.

On a wonderful note, I’m thrilled to share that I’m teaming up with Dr. Neva White and Catherine Schuller to bring a fantastic, free, and fashionable Divabetic outreach event to life with the Frazier Family Coalition. Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 8, at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital! I couldn’t be more excited about what we have planned!

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Divabetic Advocates For Diabetes And Stroke Awareness

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 discovering Luther 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.

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 in partnership with the Frazier Family Coalition 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.

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

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My London Trip: Visiting Richard Marzetti at Solar Radio Studios

One of the standout moments from my incredible trip to London, where I was there to promote the premiere of the Luther: Never Too Much documentary 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!

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Mrs. Mary Ida Vandross and Max Promote Stroke And Diabetes Advocacy


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.

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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!

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Divabetic Inspiration: Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle inspired me to create the term “Divabetic” during a memorable Luther Vandross Tribute Concert in New York City back in 2003.

Watching her shine on stage, radiant and dressed to impress, she shared, “I have diabetes. Diabetes doesn’t have me.” Her courage and sparkle made me reflect, “You’re not just a diabetic; you’re a DIVA.”

That’s when the idea of “Divabetic” popped into my head. Once I got home, I noted the word ‘diabetic’ in black ink and then creatively added a ‘v’ in red. It suddenly clicked that the ‘v’ symbolized Vandross and the divine divas he loved, like Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, and of course, Patti LaBelle.

I realized that encouraging Luther’s fans to embrace a fresh perspective (“NEW ATTITUDE”) on living with diabetes—just like Patti did—could really transform health outcomes.

For the past twenty years, Patti LaBelle has shown the world that you can GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS, and live well with diabetes every day.

While I don’t remember Luther discussing his diabetes openly, I knew he had a huge support system for his music, but when it came to managing his health, he faced it on his own. Tragically, he suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes at just 52. But you don’t have to follow that path or choose to walk it alone.

It’s essential to seek help, connect with a caring community, and share your journey. After all, living with diabetes can be fabulous! For over twenty years, I’ve been on this mission, all thanks to the inspiration from Patti LaBelle.

Through the Divabetic programs, podcasts, and videos, I’ve reached hundreds of thousands of men and women, spreading awareness and positivity. Let’s live life like a diva!

It is a privilege to be featured in the NAACP-nominated documentary Luther: Never Too Much and to share my story of discovering Luther after he suffered a stroke related to mismanaged diabetes, hoping to help others avoid a health crisis.

My hope is that by sharing our experiences, we can encourage others to take preventative steps for their health. If you live alone, please make sure you have a solid support system in place for any emergencies.

Remember, if you notice any signs of a stroke, don’t hesitate to seek help right away – taking quick action can really make a difference in your recovery. Let’s look out for each other!

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Don’t Go Into Your Fear Box

Fear isn’t the best way to motivate ourselves, and while it might give you a little boost to take better care of your diabetes, it often doesn’t last.

The stress and anxiety that come along with fear can really weigh us down. Instead, a more effective way is to mix a little fear with positive incentives, creating a supportive environment that encourages actions in a happier, more uplifting way.

As I reflected on the experience of finding my boss, Luther Vandross, after he suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes in the Luther: Never Too Much documentary, I became acutely aware of the trauma I endured. Those memories still feel fresh, even after two decades!


Rather than using Luther’s health journey to scare or pressure people at Divabetic programs into tighter diabetes management, I created an upbeat atmosphere using games, music, crafts and makeover experiences to empower people.

I aim to boost everyone’s confidence in their ability to manage their self-care and guide them towards optimal health. Inspiring someone by uplifting their self-belief is far more effective—encouraging them with a heartfelt ‘Yes, you can do it!’ is much better than saying ‘Be careful, watch out!’

It could be fact or fable, but I was told that director Dawn Porter’s team listened to my Luther Vandross Tribute podcasts while developing. the Luther: Never Too Much documentary.

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The Best Of 2024: Luther Vandross Music & Style Celebration

One of the standout highlights of 2024 was undoubtedly the Luther: Music & Style Celebration held in April at the Rennaissance Hotel in New York. We were thrilled to have Luther Vandross’s talented choreographer, James Ervin, with us to share his expertise!

The atmosphere was electric as James taught the audience the unforgettable choreography from “Never Too Much.”

His passion and enthusiasm were contagious, making it an unforgettable experience.

He also shared fascinating stories about how he collaborated with Luther to create that signature romantic elegance that we all love. It was a heartwarming moment that brought everyone together in celebration of Luther’s incredible legacy. All photos by Carol Seitz photography.

We’re looking forward to hosting Luther: Music & Style Celebration in 2025.

The Luther: Never Too Much documentary airs on CNN on January 1, 2025.

Inspired by Halle Berry, American actress, international superstar and seriously fit diva living with diabetes, Mr. Divabetic presents a work-out of diabetes self-care solutions featuring the Divabetic Angels of Diabetes Outreach, Mama Rose Marie and real diva, Jessica C. of Cincinnati, OH. 

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Paulette McWilliams Talks About Her New Holiday Classic, “Pink Champagne”

My friend, singer-songwriter Paulette McWilliams, shares the story behind her lush holiday ballad “Pink Champagne” on the Black Muse video podcast.

This song is more than just a tune; it’s a heartfelt tribute to anyone facing the challenges of heartbreak during the holidays.

“Pink Champagne” by Paulette McWilliams and Ivan Hampden Jr. has been making waves, earning the title of ‘Christmas Song of the Week’ on UGONE Radio with host Toni B .

Toni B’s UGONE Radio Show

It has also been added to RhythmAndSoul‘s festive playlist and will be featured on Steve Quirk’s Fusion Flavour’s Christmas Eve show.

Be sure to subscribe to Black Muse’s YouTube channel, hosted by Clarence Waldron, to hear Paulette reflect on her incredible journey in music, the new documentary “Luther: Never Too Much,” and her collaborations with Bette Midler, Johnny Mathis, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin.

To top it all off, she showcases her stunning vocals by performing a few signature riffs that will leave everyone wanting more.

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