JDRF Children's Congress 2005

"You are a true champion for our cause," Mary Tyler Moore told U.S. Senators at the 2005 JDRF Children's Congress.

Speaking about developments spurred by the 2003 Children's Congress, Moore thanked the Senators for securing additional research funds, passing legislation promoting islet cell transplantation, and standing up for stem cell research. But, she cautioned, this is not enough: more is needed, as findings in stem cell research have raised hopes for the success of continued efforts.

"We have been able to move promising experimental findings into human clinical trials," Moore stated. "Right now, I'm thrilled to report, there are literally dozens of them underway - that have already begun to produce treatments addressing diabetes at all stages, from reversing long-term damage all the way to true disease prevention."

Moore reminded the Senators of the daily battles many wage fighting to control blood sugar levels, asking the Senators to remember those who must live with diabetes as they vote on upcoming legislation on stem cell research and funding for research. She closed with the thought, "To achieve our goal of a world without diabetes, we must continue to work together as a nation to fund research, craft policies, and take bold actions that enable progress not merely in small steps, but in great leaps and bounds."

Following Moore's testimony, several children and other participants, including Olympic gold medal swimmer Gary Hall, Jr., shared their stories about the complications of living with diabetes, overcoming burnout, and the urgent need for a cure.

More Testimonies:

Stephanie, 11  |  Ellie, 4  |  Ethan, 13  |  Aaron, 9  |  Shaynah, 13 |  Lauren, 13