I have always loved Mary Tyler Moore. I remember snuggling on the couch with my mom one night a week to watch the Mary Tyler Moore show. I don't know what was more comical -- the humor of the storyline or hearing my mom's roaring laugh each Saturday.

I found out years ago Moore has type 1 diabetes. Right away, it comforted me. Maybe it was because I admired her acting skills and love her warm smile. My young brain logic went something like this, "If Mary Tyler Moore has type 1, then maybe it's not so bad my older brother has juvenile diabetes." Whatever the reason, I did some research to catch up on Moore 's activities these days.

Born in 1936, Moore turns 71 this year. Her activism in support of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF) is remarkable. As JDRF's International Chairman, Moore has regularly testified before Congress for juvenile diabetes research. She is heading to Washington D.C. later this month to testify once again at Children's Congress 2007. Moore and over 100 kids with type 1 diabetes will meet with top U.S. Government officials to advocate for the cause. These pioneering delegates represent all 50 states and the District of Columbia .

I applaud Mary Tyler Moore for her efforts on behalf of type 1 diabetics worldwide. Watch for future posts on Children's Congress 2007 -- this influential event only comes around every two years.