Marc Ramirez played football for University of Michigan Wolverines. As he got older, he struggled with diabetes, ED, psoriasis and frequent heartburn. In the videos below, he shares his personal story candidly.

In fact, most of his family (mom, 7 siblings) ran into serious medical conditions as early as their 30s and 40s. Mom died at 61, after struggling with diabetes for 33 years. Oldest brother died at 41 with pancreatic cancer. Twin brother had heart attack; diabetic; on many medications. Younger sister was diabetic; many medications; insulin dependent. Little brother (43) got his leg amputated; had pancreatic and kidney transplant; legally blind; dialysis 3 times a week; 25 medications per day.

Marc himself was diagnosed with diabetes in 2002. In 2011, he was on 2 insulin shots daily, 2 diabetes pills, a high blood pressure pill and a high cholesterol pill. Plus, he had Erectile Dysfunction (ED), psoriasis & frequent heartburn. In the 7-min video below, he narrates his ED struggles as well - he used to find excuses like "it's too dark" when the real problem was ED. He explains how his impaired ability to perform in bed affected his self esteem

On Dec 3, 2011, Marc and Kim (his wife) adopted WFPB. Within 2 months, he was off all 5 of his medications. He was stunned to realize that these medical conditions in his family were largely due to lifestyle!

Inspired by his personal success, Marc and his wife launched "Chickpea And Bean", a non-profit to spread awareness of WFPB guidelines.

Marc's non-profit: Chickpea & Bean

Articles:

• (2018) From Meathead to Plant-Based Diet: The Marc Ramirez Story at Mastering Diabetes.
• Marc's Story at Chickpea & Bean.

Videos: