#India #Breakthrough T1D #Udaipur #Mary Tyler Moore #Princess Padmaja

Honoring a Visionary Advocate

On March 16, 2026, a significant event took place at the Breakthrough T1D on the Hill gathering in Washington, D.C. This occasion was marked by the presentation of the prestigious Mary Tyler Moore Award to Princess Padmaja Kumari Parmar, a distinguished advocate for individuals living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) from Udaipur, India. This accolade acknowledges her relentless efforts in advancing diabetes care and minimizing stigma associated with the condition.

The Breakthrough T1D organization, previously known as JDRF, hosted this momentous event, which gathered passionate grassroots advocates who journeyed from across the United States. They aimed to engage with lawmakers and promote necessary policies that can enrich the lives of those managing T1D, as well as accelerate research towards finding a cure.

The Legacy of Mary Tyler Moore

The Mary Tyler Moore Award serves as a homage to a legendary actress and advocate who reshaped public perceptions around Type 1 Diabetes through her openness and commitment to advocacy. Moore, who served as the international chairman of Breakthrough T1D from 1984 until her passing in 2017, played a monumental role in uniting government officials, researchers, and individuals living with T1D to enhance understanding and innovation within the community. This award recognizes women who, like Moore, exhibit courage in their advocacy, driving meaningful changes in the lives of those living with T1D. Some notable past recipients of this award include esteemed politicians like Senators Susan Collins and Jeanne Shaheen, alongside prominent volunteer advocates.

Dr. S. Robert Levine, the husband of the late actress and an advocate for diabetes research, was present to acknowledge Princess Padmaja's remarkable contributions. He emphasized the importance of sustaining Mary Tyler Moore's legacy through ongoing support for T1D research and advocacy, including efforts related to diabetic eye disease, led by the Mary Tyler Moore Vision Initiative.

A Personal Journey

Princess Padmaja Kumari Parmar was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at just five years old in India, a time when treatment options were severely limited. Her unique experiences shaped her into a leading global voice advocating for individuals suffering from this condition. As a Global Ambassador for Breakthrough T1D, she dedicates her efforts to raising awareness, challenging societal stigmas, and promoting better access to medical care, particularly in regions where healthcare resources are scarce.

In India, her leadership has been pivotal in bridging the gaps in T1D care. With her advocacy, she has propelled government-backed initiatives and specialized clinics, facilitating numerous families and children’s access to vital treatments like insulin and monitoring tools.

Aaron Kowalski, Ph.D., the CEO of Breakthrough T1D, commended Princess Padmaja for embodying the advocacy spirit that Mary Tyler Moore was known for. He stated, "Through her leadership and commitment, she is expanding awareness, advancing access to care, and improving the lives of people with Type 1 Diabetes in India and around the world."

A Heartfelt Acceptance

In a moving acceptance speech, Princess Padmaja expressed her gratitude and dedication, dedicating her award to her late father, who had passed away on the same date a year prior, emphasizing the strength he bestowed upon her. She acknowledged the profound impact individuals living with T1D have had on her journey. "To be honored with an award bearing the name of Mary Tyler Moore is deeply significant. Her courage transformed how the world perceives Type 1 Diabetes, encouraging future generations to lead and advocate for change. I accept this award on behalf of all individuals living with T1D; their resilience inspires me every day."

Princess Padmaja’s recognition serves as a reflection of Breakthrough T1D’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the quality of life for those affected by T1D globally, while striving to push forward initiatives towards viable cures.

About Breakthrough T1D

Renowned as a leading global organization in T1D research and advocacy, Breakthrough T1D aims to improve everyday life for individuals living with Type 1 Diabetes. The organization is committed to funding promising research, advocating for legislative changes that influence the T1D community, and empowering people managing the condition.

Understanding Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the pancreas’s inability to produce insulin, necessitating lifelong insulin therapy along with diligent health management. Currently affecting roughly 9.5 million individuals worldwide, T1D can lead to severe complications if left unregulated. While often diagnosed in childhood, many adults also receive this diagnosis later in life, highlighting the need for greater education and advocacy surrounding this condition.