PITTSBURGH -- A Steelers star tries to help others dealing with diabetes.

Offensive guard Kendall Simmons wasn't diagnosed until after he went professional.

Against his will, Simmons was told to skip training camp and go to the hospital.

“I pretty much lost my sight. I couldn’t see 3 or 4 inches in front of my face,” said Simmons.

With the help of his doctor and trainer, Simmons got his Type I Diabetes under control with a tailored game plan, which included checking his blood sugar five times a day.

It also included insulin shots, sometimes even during games.

Now Simmons is spreading the message that having diabetes is not a handicap.

“If I can keep my health and be a good father and husband and run around and play with her and be supportive to them, football doesn't matter to me,” said Simmons.

Knowing your family medical history is important.

His grandmother had the disease, but his family never discussed it.

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More Info:
-www.diabetes.org
-www.cdc.gov