Mary Tyler Moore, Jaguar PS / Shutterstock, Inc.
As the world mourns the passing of television icon Mary Tyler Moore at age 80, the loss is being felt particularly acutely by those in the diabetes community. Moore, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) in 1970 at age 33, was a tireless advocate for those with the condition, raising funds and awareness for JDRF (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).
Perhaps best known for her roles in The Dick Van Dyke Show and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Moore served as the international chairman of JDRF since 1984. In this capacity, she testified before Congress and led public service campaigns that helped raise billions of dollars for research into Type 1 diabetes.
“She used her position, one of tremendous respect in the world, to raise awareness about Type 1 diabetes. She has inspired and encouraged so many,” said Desmond Schatz, MD, pediatric endocrinologist at the University of Florida, speaking with NPR.
“Mary Tyler Moore’s legacy is that of a woman who tirelessly committed herself to helping the millions with T1D… Our country has lost an advocate, a hero, and a woman who ‘turned the world on with her smile’ both on and off screen,” added JDRF.
Those who wish to post a tribute to Moore may do so in the comments below or on this website set up in her memory by JDRF.
