Hightower on his mom: "She is my Wonder Woman."

FOXBORO — Donta Hightower's mom, L'Tanya, is his hero.

"She is my Wonder Woman", said the Patriots defensive captain Tuesday afternoon.

Hightower was in Foxboro to celebrate his mom and other special women at a private screening of the Warner Brothers film

Wonder Woman

.

For Hightower, the cause is personal. He began supporting American Diabetes Association’s mission following his mother L’Tanya's diagnosis a couple of years ago. Since then, Hightower has dedicated off-field efforts to raising funds and awareness to fight the chronic disease. He also hosts an annual fundraiser, participates in many other events across the region, and has represented the ADA on Capitol Hill.

In 2016, the ADA created "Team Tackle," an initiative that brings professional football players together with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) to raise awareness of diabetes and pre-diabetes; champion additional research, fair treatment and total wellness for all people living with diabetes; and provide hope for the millions of individuals and families who are managing diabetes or are at risk.

As his mother is his Wonder Woman, Hightower is proud to gather other powerful women who face the daily struggles associated with diabetes for the advance screening. Warner Bros. and Athlete Content & Entertainment (ACE Media), the content and production company of the NFL Players Association, teamed up to provide NFL players like Hightower opportunities to share a sneak peek of the movie with women in their lives who epitomize the qualities of Wonder Woman.

"Watching what my mom has gone through, I have learned a lot about the struggles that people face when dealing with diabetes. Your diet and your lifestyle are very important and it's important for people to understand how to take care of themselves." said Hightower.

This event could just as easily have been held in Pittsburgh instead of New England.

This offseason Hightower was a free agent and met with several teams, including the Steelers, who reportedly were very interested in signing the veteran linebacker. Donta ended up re-signing with the Patriots.

Hightower did not answer any football questions during this event.

Cox Media Group