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A New Birthday Perspective: My Jackie Robinson Year

Writer's picture: MIDIMarcumMIDIMarcum


Today is my birthday—my 42nd, my Jackie Robinson year. Normally, birthdays bring all the familiar feelings of celebration, reflection, and excitement. But this year is different. Something happened to me in March 2024 that shifted the way I see not just my birthday, but my life altogether.


On March 6, 2024, I felt terrible. For over a week, I had been taking over-the-counter medicine, hoping it would help, but nothing did. Finally, I decided to see a doctor. When the nurse took my vitals and the doctor came in, her expression was one I’ll never forget. It was as if she’d seen a ghost.


She asked if I was feeling dizzy or experiencing certain symptoms. Then she hit me with some shocking news: I had a fever, my blood pressure was sky-high, and my blood sugar was so elevated that their machine couldn’t even read it. “You need to go to the Emergency Room,” she said.


Did I mention I was scared?


I had to break the news to my mom, who was waiting for me outside. I knew she’d be a nervous wreck, so I tried my best to remain calm, even though my own anxiety was skyrocketing.


The ER staff must’ve thought the note from my doctor said “VIP,” because there was no wait. As I walked back, I told my mom everything would be okay, even though I didn’t know much of anything in that moment. What I did know was that God didn’t bring me to this place for it to be my end.


Sitting there, overwhelmed and scared, I wanted to pray but couldn’t find the words. My mind was racing. Then, I remembered what my dad taught me as a kid: The Lord’s Prayer. It was the anchor I needed.


For six hours, I was hooked up to IVs as they worked to bring my blood sugar down. After countless tests (I hadn’t studied for any of them!), I was admitted to the hospital for six days. Diagnosis: Type 2 Diabetes, Hypertension, and a severe infection that had turned septic. The doctor explained that my blood sugar had been dangerously high for so long that my body was breaking down. Had I not gone to the ER that day, I could’ve suffered a diabetic stroke, slipped into a coma, or worse.



That experience shook me to my core. Since then, I’ve been on a mission: taking my medication, exercising, changing my diet, and educating myself about diabetes and hypertension. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. For the first time in my life I’m living as someone who WANTS to live


So, why doesn’t today feel like a big deal? Because since March, every day has felt like my birthday. I’ve been given another chance to live. I’ve made changes, not just for myself but for my family and future. Diabetes runs rampant in the Core family, but we’re changing the narrative. My cousins and I talk openly about our health, something the previous generations didn’t do. We encourage each other to be proactive, and it’s making a difference.


My diabetes is now “well-managed,” according to my last checkup. I’m losing weight, cooking meals that are kind to my condition, and even creating diabetic-friendly recipes. If you’ve been buying Sunday Dinners from the MIDIKitchen, you’ve been a part of this journey without even realizing it—my test subjects for meals made with swapped ingredients to help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin resistance.


Today, I’m grateful. I’m optimistic. After almost losing my life, I’ve realized how much I want to live. I wake up every day ready to embrace it, hopeful for the future, and determined to control the things I can.


So, happy birthday to me—and here’s to many more. Pray for my patience and consistency as I continue this journey. Life is a gift, and now I’m finally learning how to cherish it.


To My Fans: Thank You for Being Part of the Journey





To my fans—whether we’ve been friends or family for years, whether you’re a fan of my music, or simply a fan of me as a person—I want to take a moment to thank YOU.


Your positive energy, encouragement, and support over the years have been invaluable to me. Music has always been my passion, but it’s also been a tool. Through it, God has revealed so much to me—not just about Him, but about life, love, and purpose. Every step of this journey has been incredible, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.


I appreciate you for reading this, for streaming my music, for coming to shows, for rocking with me through the highs and lows. And while you’re here, show some love to the shop!


I’ve got some new items I’m really excited about, including the limited-edition Pigeon Party Vans Collaboration. This drop is special—it’s about creativity, community, and celebrating the connections we’ve built through music, art, and everything in between.


Thank you again for being part of my journey. Let’s keep building, growing, and inspiring one another. Much love.


— Marcum



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2 Comments


Hey cousin, I love your story/testimony.. It’s very inspiring and informative to all who will read it I’m sure! Thanks for sharing….The Lord’s Prayer is all I need almost took me out! I couldn’t help but to begin to praise God! Love you.!

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So incredibly proud of you, Marcum! Your transparency and dedication to this part of your journey is inspiring. I pray that as you continue living and navigating this journey your zest for life continues to enhance your music, food, and writings. You’re awesome Midi Marc! Can’t wait to see what’s next!

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