Diabetes is not a funny matter.

But on Saturday, a star of what many believe is one of the funniest movies of all time looked past the horrors of the disease to entertain an audience and provide some valuable information.

The Heartland Health Diabetes Center held its annual expo in the Fulkerson Center at Missouri Western State University. This year's keynote speaker, Stephen Furst - best known as "Flounder" in the 1978 film "Animal House" - used humor to tell the story of how Type 2 Diabetes has impacted his everyday life, relationships and acting career.

"Some girls like fat guys. Not all of them, but I only need one," he told audience members.

"Being a diabetic, there's only one word for it. It sucks," he said. "There's no one who's gonna tell you, 'Don't eat that bread, don't eat that candy bar.' You've got to take care of yourself."

He revealed how his diabetes almost required partial amputation of his left foot several years ago, and how a fan of his television

series "Babylon 5" gave him a kidney when he was on dialysis, suffering from kidney failure.

He emphasized the importance of eating the right foods to maintain a healthy weight.

"For every carb, think of it as a gram of sugar. You can't say, 'Oh, sugar-free Oreos, I'll eat the whole box,'" he said.

After the presentation, attendees could walk through the halls of the Fulkerson Center to get additional information about diabetes.

"The vendors show different products that are available, whether it's glucose meters, special shoes for people with diabetes, or pharmaceuticals," said Susan Alderson, a dietician and certified diabetes educator.

Added Janis Brown, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator: "I'd say we've got well over 500 (people). The room is pretty full."

Ms. Brown said Mr. Furst was a hit at this year's expo. "The crowd was laughing and smiling," she said. "He was well-received."

Gloria Smith, who was recently diagnosed with diabetes, was impressed with the presentation. "His personality was great. His story was poignant," she said. "I think if there were people in the audience who didn't know some of the ugly ramifications of the disease, they do now."

Attendees had the chance to talk to Mr. Furst after his speech, as he signed autographs and answered questions about his acting career. He reminisced about how he got his first audition for "Animal House." During his job as a pizza delivery guy, he had the idea to put his picture and resume on the inside of every pizza box he delivered. "I did deliver a pizza to a producer ... And I got my audition for 'Animal House,'" he said.

He noted how the movie boosted his career.

"Oh, it changed it totally. 180 degrees. I never had to do anything, but act, for the next 30 years," he said.

To newly diagnosed diabetics, he offers this advice: "Don't lose hope, and you can lead a normal life. And only listen to your doctor - nobody else."