Video: BRET MICHAELS' Teary Reunion With Those He Helped Through Diabetes, Cancer

February 17, 2013

POISON singer Bret Michaels was recently on HuffPost Live where he was reunited with two people he had helped fight diabetes and cancer — Laramie Kipp, a 10-year-old with juvenile diabetes and Chrisie Funari, who lost her daughter after a long battle with cancer. Check out the clip below.

In a 2010 interview with Diabetes Forecast magazine, Michaels discussed his health struggles and the everyday challenges of living with diabetes and explained how he has taken control of his health after years of a rock-and-roll lifestyle.

"Life is not perfect, but it's how you roll with it," says Michaels. "I have been knocked down professionally and even worse medically, but I am a kicker and a fighter — mental attitude is what it's all about."

Michaels on growing up diabetic: "As a kid, I felt isolated. There were no other kids in my school who were diabetic. My mom formed the Harrisburg Diabetic Youth Camp, which saved my life. Being around others like you is empowering."

On the road: "I have seen more truck stops and truck-stop food than anyone can handle. I have to make adjustments wherever I go."

On diet: "Diabetic or not, one of the most important things when it comes down to living healthy is eating the right foods in the right balance. ... Whether it is weight loss or weight gain, I am just talking about your body feeling good and that mind over matter makes a difference."

On indulging: "Football Sunday is the day... I indulge. Looking at a pizza, my hand finds its way to a slice. I am not perfect."

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