You may not realize it when he is performing on stage, but Elliot Yamin, one of the finalists on American Idol season 5, is a juvenile diabetic! Diagnosed at age 16, Yamin struggled with his diabetes like most teens do.
In an interview with Diabetes Health, Yamin said he was a rebellious teen who didn’t understand the dangers of diabetes. However, as soon as he realized what a threat diabetes could be to living a normal life, he began to take control over the disease.
Most diabetics find dealing with the disease difficult within their day-to-day lives. Yamin is no different. By keeping a close eye on his blood sugar and food intake, Yamin controls his diabetes closely.
Yamin not only entertains fans on stage, he is also an advocate for finding a cure for diabetes. Yamin told Entertainment Tonight he is a spokesperson for the Johnson and Johnson Diabetes Institute. Through this organization, Yamin is able to tell young diabetics how important it is for them to take care of their diabetes. The Johnson and Johnson Diabetes Institute is devoted to the management of diabetes by training health care professionals to know and use all of the new technology available to them.
It is great Yamin is sharing his diabetes with others, both during his tours and by advocating for the Johnson and Johnson Diabetes Institute. By showing everyone dreams are achievable and you can do whatever you put your mind to, Yamin has proven that diabetes does not get in the way of living life to the fullest.