Stars with Diabetes

Soon after blood tests confirmed Jackson’s original diagnosis, he underwent gastric bypass surgery. Jackson — who once topped the scales at 355 pounds — has lost over 100 pounds. Since his diagnosis, he has also become an avid spokesperson for those with type 2 diabetes. “I realized a lot of things that can happen if you don’t manage [diabetes], which is why I encourage everyone to do so,” he said. Jackson has long been a supporter of health charities such as Stand Up To Cancer, which helps raise money for cancer research, and the Red Cross, which provides a variety of health and emergency services, including HIV/AIDS education.