20 Celebrities with Type 1 Diabetes

In the United States, there are over 3 million people in the United States who are affected by type 1 diabetes. There are several famous actors, musicians and athletes with this condition. From Nick Jonas to Mary Tyler Moore, here are 19 celebrities who have, or had, type 1 diabetes. 

1. Nick Jonas

At the age of 13, Nick Jonas was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Since then, he discussed his disease openly with the public, and has advocated for younger adolescents affected by diabetes. Jonas wrote a book entitled A Little Bit Longer, to help inspire other patients and raise awareness. He and his brothers also established the Change for the Children Foundation and has donated millions for diabetes research and treatment.  

2. Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams, the former Miss America pageant winner, also has type 1 diabetes. She wrote the book Healthy Child, Healthy World, which is a parenting book that provides insight on providing better health for children. Williams also believes that she can enjoy good food while staying disciplined about what she eats. 

3. Bret Michaels

Bret Michaels, the lead singer of Poison, was diagnosed with diabetes at 6 years old. Despite his condition, he continues to perform and pursue his career. But, he wasn't without complications. Once Michaels collapsed on stage because he didn't eat after taking his insulin. For Michaels, managing his condition required some trial and error. Today, he drinks Gatorade and orange juice to maintain his blood sugar, and his band has also started to take breaks in their set for Michaels to check his blood sugar. 

4. Victor Garber

The Broadway, film, and television actor Victor Garber was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 12 years old. Garber learned how to balance both his public and personal life. Unlike today, technology was not on Garber's side. In order to test his blood sugar, Garber tested his urine four times a day. 

5. Anne Rice

Anne Rice fell into a coma in 1998, and it was said she was just 10 minutes away from dying. Afterward, she was told that she had type 1 diabetes and had to start her treatment immediately. Before Rice was diagnosed, she experienced cramps immediately after she ate and she lost a lot of weight. In an interview, Rice expressed that she was scared that she would never be able to write again. She said that she, "simply couldn't find the words."

Photo source: Nick Jonas Diabetes by VoLcOm//JoNaS