Bret Michaels shared a heartfelt video on Twitter on November 14 to mark World Diabetes Day, and Dee Snider shared his support for him with a heartfelt message.
Michaels has lived with Type 1 Diabetes since he was six years old. He spoke directly to others living with the condition in the video. Michaels explained his connection to the day, saying, “I just wanted to take this moment for all of us in this fight: we’re in it to win it together. We will not be victims. We’re gonna be victorious.” He expressed gratitude to both diabetics and non-diabetics for their efforts to support diabetes awareness and called for unity in the battle to find a cure.
Dee Snider shared the video on Twitter with his own message of support. “You truly are a warrior, my brother,” Snider wrote. “I have personally witnessed your struggle and yet you keep rocking!”
Michaels has been open about living with diabetes. It’s a condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This requires lifelong management through insulin injections and close monitoring of blood sugar levels. If untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications like ketoacidosis, heart disease, and even coma.
Michaels was hospitalized for diabetic ketoacidosis at six years old. He’s been using his platform to raise awareness and funds for diabetes research. Michaels helped raise tens of millions of dollars for organizations like the American Diabetes Association and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation through his Life Rocks Foundation.
The Poison frontman faced many health scares. During the band’s first show at Madison Square Garden in the late 1980s, he collapsed on stage due to insulin shock caused by not eating properly before the performance. He was struck on the head by a descending set piece at the Tony Awards in 2009, and this led to a serious injury. Michaels had a near-fatal brain hemorrhage and a stroke the following year while appearing on ‘Celebrity Apprentice.’
Michaels previously told People that his approach to life is to make the most of each day. He shared that staying active helps him keep his blood sugar levels steady and his energy high. He hopes that his journey inspires others to take control of their own health challenges.
You truly are a warrior, my brother. I have personally witnessed your struggle and yet you keep rocking!
— Dee Snider🇺🇸🎤 (@deesnider) November 16, 2024