Michael Trotter Jr., from The War and Treaty, made a public appearance at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles in February 2024. Recently opening up about his type 2 diabetes diagnosis, Trotter hopes to inspire and educate others through his health journey. Speaking with PEOPLE on the red carpet before the Opry 100: A Live Celebration in Nashville on March 19, Trotter expressed how this vulnerability has granted him newfound mental clarity on the matter. “It was a vulnerability that I needed to access,” the singer shared. “So I feel really good. I feel encouraged and I feel like I’m helping someone on their journey.”
Trotter first noticed something was amiss while watching Family Feud at home, realizing that host Steve Harvey appeared blurry. His wife, Tanya Trotter, promptly took him to a nearby hospital where he was diagnosed with diabetes. Since then, he has made significant lifestyle changes, such as incorporating exercise, healthier eating habits, and partnering with the manufacturer of the GLP-1 drug Ozempic to spread awareness about managing type 2 diabetes.
His positive outlook has been bolstered by the support he has received since going public about his diagnosis and his decision to embrace Ozempic. Trotter’s involvement in the campaign “My Ozempic Era” aims to encourage a healthier lifestyle for individuals with diabetes. Reflecting on his journey, Trotter shared, “Since starting Ozempic, in addition to eating healthier and incorporating exercise into my routine, I’ve been able to lower my A1C [blood sugar] and get back to the right rhythm for me, both in my work and personal life. I am thankful for my Ozempic Era.”
In his role as an ambassador, Trotter has witnessed the positive impact of his story on others, with many feeling empowered to explore Ozempic as a treatment option. The singer is grateful for the opportunity to inspire and uplift those navigating similar health challenges.