Mary Tyler Moore's Legacy in Diabetes Advocacy: Remembering Her Impact in 2025
Honoring Mary Tyler Moore, the iconic actress and tireless type 1 diabetes advocate who transformed awareness, funding, and research for diabetes.
Farewell to Mary Tyler Moore, a trailblazer in both entertainment and diabetes advocacy.
The diabetes community is deeply saddened by the passing of Mary Tyler Moore, a courageous champion for type 1 diabetes who revolutionized advocacy, public awareness, and research funding.
Mary passed away on Wednesday, January 25, 2024, at age 80 due to pneumonia, surrounded by her loved ones.
She gained worldwide recognition through her groundbreaking television roles, notably on The Dick Van Dyke Show and her own eponymous sitcom in the 1970s. Beyond her acting achievements, Mary’s relentless efforts reshaped public understanding of diabetes and significantly boosted research funding for improved treatments and a cure.
Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 33 in 1970—the same year her show debuted and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (now JDRF) was established—Mary shattered stereotypes by demonstrating that adults with diabetes can lead vibrant, successful lives.
She was a pioneering figure who openly discussed living with diabetes long before it became common for celebrities to do so, inspiring countless individuals worldwide.
In 1984, she became international chairman of the JDRF, passionately promoting involvement and awareness through campaigns like “What Does Hope Look Like?”
Throughout her lifetime, Mary helped raise millions for diabetes research, chaired the Children’s Congress since 1999, and authored Growing Up Again: Life, Loves, and Oh Yeah Diabetes, a resource included in JDRF’s care kits for newly diagnosed adults. Her humanitarian efforts earned her the JDRF Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2007.
The JDRF praised her legacy: “Mary Tyler Moore was a tireless advocate who brought hope and visibility to millions affected by type 1 diabetes.”
Following her passing, the JDRF launched a tribute microsite at MooreForever.org, providing a platform for the diabetes community to share memories and honor her enduring impact.
Mary is survived by her husband of 33 years, Dr. Robert Levine, who has also been deeply involved with JDRF leadership and advocacy.
Colleagues Reflect on Mary’s Impact
Many who worked alongside Mary recall her intelligence, warmth, and dedication. Lee Ducat, co-founder of the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, shared how Mary’s initial hesitation to become an advocate turned into a lifelong commitment that transformed diabetes awareness.
Mary’s involvement helped shift public perception, boosted funding for research, and paved the way for advances like continuous glucose monitors covered by insurers.
Jeffrey Brewer, former JDRF head and founder of Bigfoot Biomedical, noted, “Mary’s openness educated the world and accelerated progress toward a cure.”
Community Tributes Highlight Her Influence
Across blogs, forums, and social media, heartfelt tributes celebrate Mary’s role as a beacon of hope for those living with type 1 diabetes. Many recall how her story inspired them to face their diagnosis with courage and optimism.
- “Mary Tyler Moore showed me that diabetes doesn’t define what I can achieve.” — Miriam Tucker, NPR
- “Her advocacy changed lives and continues to inspire.” — Moira McCarthy, A Sweet Life
- “Mary was a fighter and a hero to the diabetes community.” — Tom Karlya, Diabetes Dad
At DiabetesMine, we join the global community in honoring Mary Tyler Moore’s extraordinary legacy. Her passion, courage, and smile will forever light the way for those living with diabetes.
Rest in peace, Mary. Your impact lives on.
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