New England Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower received the Spirit Award during the 32nd Annual Cedars-Sinai Sports Spectacular Gala on April 3 at the W Hotel in Los Angeles for his work against diabetes. Hightower, took up the fight against diabetes after his mother L’Tanya was diagnosed with the disease, was presented the award by Chris Paul and Blake Griffin of the Los Angeles Clippers. Honoring those who excel on and off the field, other awardees included DeAndre Jordan, Madison Kocian, Kristi Castlin and Dr. Suzanne Devkota, PhD, Assistant Professor at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s Division of Gastroenterology.

Sports Spectacular has raised more than $25 million to support the Medical Genetics Institute and the Sports Spectacular Diabetes and Obesity Wellness and Research Center at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Sports Spectacular was founded in 1986 with the vision of linking world-class athletes and innovative medical research. Proceeds benefit important programs and initiatives at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, including the world-class Medical Genetics Institute and a highly sought after Fellowship program.

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