Tracy Morgan underwent a kidney transplant December 10, 2010, and is expected to miss two-to-three episodes of 30 Rock in March so he can recover. Morgan plays Tracy Jordan on the NBC comedy, which has become a hit on Thursday nights. Morgan, 42, has had Type 2 diabetes for 15 years. During much of that time the actor admits that he did not properly manage his disease.
Tracy Morgan Didn't Take Diabetes Seriously For Many Years
In an interview with Time, Morgan said, "My first season on 30 Rock, I wasn't taking the disease seriously. Then one day I got really sick. The doctor was like, "Hey, listen, we may have to take your foot." That was it for me. Now I take my insulin every day. My blood sugar doesn't get over 120."
Morgan is doing well after surgery, and has changed his attitude about managing his diabetes. A representative for Morgan said he is "looking forward to going back to work after the holidays."
Diabetes is One of the Main Reasons for Kidney Disease
Diabetes, especially when combined with high blood pressure, is one of the most common causes of kidney disease, and the main reason why someone would need dialysis or a kidney transplant. When kidney function becomes decreased for more than three months, it becomes classified as chronic. Chronic kidney disease sometimes does not have any symptoms until irreversible kidney damage has already been done.
Type 2 Diabetics May Need to Take Insulin
While people with Type 2 diabetes produce insulin (unlike Type 1 diabetics), their pancreas does not produce enough insulin for the body to function. In some cases, this could also mean that the person is resistant to insulin, which means that their body cannot effectively use insulin. In many cases, Type 2 diabetics can control their disease with a combination of diet, exercise, and medication.
In some cases, Type 2 diabetics may need to take insulin to control their disease. Morgan mentioned that his diabetes was not in control for many years. One of the complications from this is kidney damage, which increases the longer a person has the disease.
Tina Fey, executive producer and writer for 30 Rock, said Morgan's absence from the show will be explained by "saying he has some sort of a meltdown because of a good thing that's happened to him."
Sources: WebMd, "Type 2 Diabetes Overview," (accessed December 21, 2010). WebMd, "Understanding Kidney Disease - Basic Information," (accessed December 21, 2010.) Time, "10 Questions with Tracy Morgan," October 15, 2009 (accessed December 21, 2010). CNN, " Tracy Morgan recovering after surgery," December 21, 2010.
Cherie Burbach - Cherie Burbach writes about dating, relationships, health, sports, and lifestyle. She's the author of eleven books and ebooks.
Join the Conversation