I pitched a series on diabetes to NBC because I know there are so many other families out there struggling with the disease, and perhaps unnecessarily so. With this particular series, not only are we going to explain the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but also conduct a Diabetes Fair on the Plaza. There, people will have the opportunity to meet with the finest nutritionists, doctors, trainers and educators and individual testing for the disease will be available.

The disease is actually manageable and if you're afraid that you could have it, this is your chance to be exposed to the best-of-the-best in terms of practitioners. Those of you who may need to lose weight so your Type 2 diabetes doesn't advance to the stage of insulin, I urge you to come on down to the Plaza and have the best fitness experts put you on a plan for a better tomorrow. For those with Type 1 diabetes, my Dad's personal physician, Dr. Anne Peters, will be there to help answer your questions. Simple changes to his daily regimen made the difference. I want that same difference for you.

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Maria Menounos is a correspondent for Access Hollywood as well as a TODAY contributor.

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