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The legacy of Former Buckeye legend and NFL Great Jack Tatum, was remembered at the Celebrities for Diabetes event at the Archie M. Griffin in the Ohio Union on the campus of The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
Jack Tatum was affected by complications of diabetes and made it his mission to help others with diabetes. He worked with the Central Ohio Diabetes Association for nearly ten years to help raise funds and awareness for diabetes after Ohio State University physician Dr. Manuel Tzagournis helped to save his life.
Tatum gave generously to the Central Ohio community that was so important to him. Thanks to his efforts, the Celebrities for Diabetes event raised nearly $1 million. As a result, thousands of people with diabetes have received diabetes detection and education services, regardless of ability to pay. He was a giant on the football field, but he had an even bigger impact on the lives of people with diabetes in our community.
“The tireless efforts of Jack Tatum, his devotion to the diabetes cause and his personal story have highlighted the importance of diabetes detection and education,” said Jeanne C. Grothaus, Executive Director.
Tatum played safety and linebacker, while starring at Ohio State from 1968 to 1970 and then became one of the most feared hitters in the NFL for the Oakland Raiders from 1971 to 1979. He completed his NFL career with Houston in 1980.
"Selected 19th overall in 1971 NFL draft by Oakland, Tatum helped the Raiders win the Super Bowl in 1976. He was named to the Pro Bowl three times and finished with 37 interceptions and 10 fumble recoveries. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
Celebrities for Diabetes brought together former Ohio State and Michigan players/coaches to celebrate the rivalry’s rich history and proceeds raised benefit the Central Ohio Diabetes Association.
The event also allowed Buckeye and Wolverine Fans to celebrate the 108th year tradition with a host of former Ohio State and Michigan alumni as they shared their experiences on how “The Rivalry” impacted their lives and college football as a whole.
The evening festivities included live and silent auctions featuring sports memorabilia and an autograph session with the players.
The Central Ohio Diabetes Association helps Central Ohioans with diabetes to detect their condition, prevent onset and complications and learn to live well with the challenge of diabetes.
“The more I learn about the disease, the more I want to do. I have dedicated myself to helping the Central Ohio Diabetes Association in their overall efforts. I urge others to join me in the fight against diabetes,” Tatum once said.
Tatum was an advocate in the fight against the disease, establishing a fund named after him and participating in various fundraisers that support the Central Ohio Diabetes Association’s programs and services.
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