Divabetic

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max 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. Divabetic is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to empower women to manage their diabetes self-care with confidence, inspiration and knowledge.

[mr-divabetic]

I had an incredible time at Black Men's Wellness Day in Philadelphia! Partnering with the Frazier Family Coalition and the Luther Vandross Foundation allowed us to provide essential lower-limb circulation screenings and raise awareness about added sugars in popular foods and drinks.

On Luther Vandross's 75th birthday, we honored his legacy by promoting wellness for men of color, inspired by his song "Dance With My Father." The event was made even more special by the dedicated staff from Thomas Jefferson University.

The Luther Vandross Foundation continues to support students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), helping them achieve their educational goals.

[mr-divabetic]

Mrs. Washington kicks off the groove early with this toe-tapping ditty, "Another Peach On The Same Branch."

[mr-divabetic]

"My eyes are watering constantly. How can they be dry?" Sue asked her doctor in confusion. Her doctor explained that when the eye lacks lubrication, it triggers tears as a defense mechanism. However, these tears often lack the essential oils needed to keep the eye moist, leading to quick evaporation.

Women with diabetes face a higher risk of Dry Eye Disease (DED), with studies showing they experience symptoms 50% more often than men. High blood sugar can cause nerve damage and inflammation, reducing tear production and quality.

Managing your HbA1c is an effective way to slow diabetic eye complications, such as dry eye. For long-term relief, consult an eye doctor, who may suggest prescription eye drops, anti-inflammatory treatments, or procedures to help unclog tiny oil glands in the eyelids.

[mr-divabetic]

Mrs. Washington returns with her signature Southern Soul on "Another Peach From The Same Branch."

[mr-divabetic]

One of our favorite singers, Peabo Bryson, whose smooth tone produced classic R&B standards and Disney hits, has died, according to a statement from his family. He was 75.

Bryson is best known for "Feel the Fire”, “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again", “Can You Stop the Rain,” "Tonight I Celebrate My Love" (with Roberta Flack), Disney duets “Beauty and the Beast" (with Celine Dion, and “A Whole New World" (with Regina Belle) for the animated film “Aladdin.”

Peabo Bryson suffered a heart attack in 2019, and this May, he was hospitalized following a stroke.

“While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing how deeply Peabo was loved and how many lives were touched by his voice and his generous spirit,” his family statement read on Tuesday. “His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”

[mr-divabetic]

Check out how much added sugar is in grape-flavored fruit juice!!

The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to no more than 6% of daily calories. For most American women, that’s no more than 100 calories per day, or about 6 teaspoons of sugar. For men, it’s no more than 150 calories per day, or about 9 teaspoons.

Look for “Added Sugars” under “Total Sugars" on the nutrition label. There are four calories in one gram. So, if a product has 15 grams of sugar per serving, that’s 60 calories from the sugar, not counting the other ingredients.

Mark your calendars for Black Men's Wellness Day on Saturday, June 6th, in Philadelphia, PA! This is a fantastic opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being. Join us from 7 AM to 12 PM for an enriching experience in partnership with the Luther Vandross Foundation and the Frazier Family Coalition.

Divabetic is on a mission to raise awareness about added sugars in popular foods and drinks while supporting free lower-limb circulation screenings in honor of the legendary Luther Vandross at this upcoming outreach event.

[mr-divabetic]

"Anything is possible!" – Michelle McGann, a 9-time LPGA champion, embodies resilience and determination every day. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just 13, she joined the LPGA Tour in 1989 and often shines on the Legends Tour. Michelle views each day as a science experiment, reminding herself to stay attuned to her body and maintain discipline.

But diabetes has led to some professional disappointments. Michelle recalls leading the US Open while experiencing low blood sugar. She said, "Three to four holes into the day, I didn't know where I was. I made bogeys and triples. Fortunately, I treated it and started hitting birdies and eagles, but it was too late. I had already lost the tournament."

Despite these challenges, Michelle emphasizes the importance of managing diabetes. "Keeping glucose levels close to those of a non-diabetic can really enhance your quality of life," she says, aiming to inspire others.

As a passionate advocate for diabetes awareness, Michelle founded the Michelle McGann Fund and Golf Tournaments to support children with diabetes and fund crucial research. Her message is clear: “Diabetes shouldn’t limit your dreams; discipline is key to managing it.” Plus, her signature style and vibrant hats definitely make her stand out!

[mr-divabetic]

Enjoy this new retro soul single, “Carpets In Hotel Rooms.” This deeply emotional Southern soul heartbreak song captures the pain, passion, and secrets shared behind closed doors. With smoky vocals, vintage production, lush horns, and a slow-burning groove, Mrs. Washington delivers a performance filled with heartbreak, regret, longing, and soul.

[mr-divabetic]

Bonnie, a 30-year-old teacher from New York, transformed her prediabetes through ballroom dancing. After her diagnosis at 24, she struggled to find an enjoyable workout but tapped into her love for "Dancing With The Stars" and her musical background. Now, her blood glucose levels are normal, and she feels great in her clothes.

Experts highlight that making fitness fun is vital for managing blood sugar and metabolic health. For many, the gym can feel monotonous, expensive, and boring, but even activities like a long walk after dinner can enhance insulin sensitivity.

Debbie Allen's prediabetes diagnosis was expected due to her family's history, prompting her to focus on her health. Similarly, Amy Jordan, who has type 1 diabetes, channels her passion for dance into her wellness journey through her inspiring "Victory Dance" events.

[mr-divabetic]

I LIKE LOVE, in the house & in my heart!! Although I won’t be singing this little ditty at our, “LET’S GO DISCO”, Party that we’re having t

I LIKE LOVE, in the house & in my heart!! Although I won’t be singing this little ditty at our, “LET’S GO DISCO”, Party that we’re having t

Wow, Norma Jean Wright made my Friday FABULOUS!! She shared my new collage art video for her iconic disco song, "I Like Love," today!!

[mr-divabetic]

Women with diabetic neuropathy often feel a burning, tingling, or numbness in their feet, which can make it hard to get around.

Take Delores, for example. She has been living with Type 2 diabetes for 40 years and started to notice these symptoms in her 50s. Diabetic neuropathy happens because of long-term high blood sugar levels, and it can cause issues in the legs and feet, leading to feelings like numbness, tingling, or even sharp pain. Sometimes, it can also affect other parts of the body.

At first, Delores thought her tingling and numbness were just from the demands of her job. But she soon discovered it was linked to her diabetes. She's had some challenges, like three falls in two years, because her balance was affected.

While many people try to find relief with regular medicines but don’t always succeed, some have found amazing help with advanced treatments like spinal cord stimulation or by making healthy lifestyle changes. For Delores, a big part of her success has been walking between 3,000 and 4,000 steps every day. This not only helps her manage her neuropathy but also keeps her diabetes in check.

Delores believes in staying positive and says, “I’m never a victim; I’m a victor!”

[mr-divabetic]

I was inspired to work with collage.

[mr-divabetic]

Get ready to hit the dance floor with "Hold My Heels," a high-energy retro disco anthem celebrating the power of women! 👠✨ Inspired by the glittery exuberance of the 1970s - 1880s, "Hold My Heels" is a song for every woman who has ever chosen self-love, self-acceptance, and the courage to move forward from the past. Featuring a diverse cast of women of all ages and sizes, this video is a triumphant celebration of stepping into your power and dancing with pure freedom. As the former personal assistant to the legendary Luther Vandross, I wrote this song as a heartfelt tribute to the incredible women who make up his fan base. This song is dedicated to the spirit of the iconic divas who paved the way—legends like Diana Ross, Natalie Cole, Patti LaBelle, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Whitney Houston, Jean Carne, Donna Summer, Phyllis Hyman, Martha Wash, Linda Clifford, Alfa Anderson, Norma Jean Wright, Regina Belle, Thelma Houston, Candi Stanton, Cheryl Lynn and Teena Marie. Their artistry and strength continue to inspire our mission. Support & Wellness for Women: In honor of Luther's legacy, Divabetic is proud to offer free programming for women at risk, affected by, or living with diabetes. Our mission is to help you "keep your house a home" by providing essential resources for stroke prevention and chronic illness management. Visit: Divabetic.Org Join the Entourage of Care: Don’t tackle your self-care alone! Like your favorite divas, we encourage you to form an "entourage of care" to help manage the emotional and physical aspects of living with a chronic illness. Together, we can thrive with the same grace and resilience as the greats. Written by Max Szadek. Music by SUNO

[mr-divabetic]

It's Vintage!! Mrs. Washington

[mr-divabetic]

Celebrity stylist Erin Walsh shared in Purist magazine that she felt most women pull clothes from their closets that make them feel bad about themselves, and that it becomes such a habit that these same women don't realize they do it. Conversely, when women put on something with intention, they seem to feel like their truest selves, leading to a more joyful day. This mindful self-care practice applies to everyone, regardless of budget, body type, or size, and no matter the level of busyness. 

Erin believes it's important to feel grounded before you get dressed. She urges us to identify how we want to feel for the day ahead, not how we think we should look. The shift from dressing for others to dressing for ourselves changes everything. We should try not to ask ourselves what we should wear; instead, we should ask ourselves how we want to feel.  Starting her with centered intention allows our closets to stop being a source of anxiety but rather a portal for possibilities. 

How do you feel when you get dressed? Are you dressing for yourself or dressing for others? 

[mr-divabetic]

Billie Jean King, a tennis star and champion for equality living with type 2 diabetes, graduated from California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) at 82. On May 18, 2026, she received her Bachelor of Arts in History. This was 65 years after she first started college in 1961. Billie Jean dropped out to follow her famous tennis career. She said, "It is never, ever, too late to finish what you have started," and she became the first person in her family to graduate from college.

While we celebrate Billie Jean King's amazing achievement, we understand why some people choose not to go to college today because of the high cost of tuition. Education can happen in many ways, and there are many paths to learning and growth—whether through college or other experiences. What’s most important is to find what works best for you and not let diabetes or any challenges stop you from reaching your goals. Dream big!

[mr-divabetic]

Step aboard the emotional ride of “Crosstown Bus” — the brand-new retro soul and Southern Soul single from Mrs. Washington, the self-proclaimed “Stepmother of Soul.” Inspired by the golden age of 1960s and 1970s R&B, this heartfelt love song blends classic soul storytelling, vintage grooves, and powerhouse female vocals into a timeless listening experience for fans of authentic soul music. With echoes of legendary artists like Betty Wright, Aretha Franklin, Gwen McCrae, Dorothy Moore, Nina Simone, and Jackie Moore, “Crosstown Bus” captures the pain, passion, loyalty, and longing of a woman holding onto love through heartbreak and hard lessons. Rich with vintage soul textures, bluesy emotion, deep Southern Soul grooves, and smooth retro production, this track feels like a lost jukebox classic rediscovered for a new generation. If you love classic R&B slow jams, old-school soul music, vintage vinyl vibes, retro soul revival, Memphis soul, Motown-inspired vocals, Stax-style grooves, emotional love songs, and powerful storytelling through music, “Crosstown Bus” belongs on your playlist today. Mrs. Washington delivers raw emotion and timeless elegance in a performance that celebrates the spirit of traditional soul music while bringing fresh energy to today’s retro-soul and new-soul scene. Perfect for fans of Southern Soul, blues-infused R&B, soulful women singers, late-night slow jams, and classic heartbreak ballads.