When we interviewed legendary entertainer Della Reese in July 2017, she stated then that her life was at stake due to her battle with diabetes. For this Black History of Health: Della Reese edition, we briefly look back at her diagnosis.
Although she pointed out that lifestyle changes led her to lose weight and manage some of her symptoms, it was not enough in the end. Shortly after we spoke to her, the “Harlem Nights” beloved actress passed just a few months later in November.
“She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and pastor, as well as an award-winning actress and singer. Through her life and work, she touched and inspired the lives of millions of people,” actress Roma Downey, Reese’s co-star on “Touched By an Angel”, said in a statement announcing Reese’s death, per Variety.
“She was a mother to me and I had the privilege of working with her side by side for so many years on ‘Touched by an Angel.’ I know heaven has a brand new angel this day. Della Reese will be forever in our hearts.”
Although the official cause is unknown, it’s easy to assume that it was due to her diabetes diagnosis that probably led to the beloved legend’s passing. So, what are the complications that can come from having diabetes?
What are the complications of diabetes?
According to the Mayo Clinic, there is a wide range of complications that can arise from diabetes.
Long-term complications of diabetes develop gradually. The longer you have diabetes — and the less controlled your blood sugar — the higher the risk of complications.
Eventually, diabetes complications may be disabling or even life-threatening. Possible complications include: