Dr Robert D Lawrence.
Diagnosed Type 1 in 1920 at the age of 28, two years before the discovery of insulin. He worked as a doctor at Kings College Hospital in London.
Since Diabetes had such a poor prognosis (3 - 4 years on the Allen Starvation Diet) at that time he moved to Florence to practice and to enjoy some Italian culture for what little life he had left. He was alerted to the discovery of insulin by a telegram from Dr GA Harrison, the biochemist at Kings College Hospital, London that said, "I've got some insulin. It works. Come back quick." Returning to London Dr Lawrence received his first dose of insulin on 31st May 1923, devoted the rest of his medical career to the study and care of diabetics and together with HG Wells founded the British Diabetic Association in 1934 – the first patient-oriented association to be established in the UK.
RD Lawrence has given his name to medical fellowships, the RD Lawrence lecture award, the RD Lawrence medal (awarded to diabetics who have achieved 60 years living with the disease) and a ward is also named after him at Kings College Hospital.
Alan Nabarro – OBE – also diagnosed Type 1 in the 1920’s. He campaigned tirelessly to put a stop to discrimination against those with diabetes. He served the British Diabetic Association, the forerunner of Diabetes UK, for more than 30 years. He was awarded the OBE in 1968 for his work with young people in London.
The Alan Nabarro Medal is awarded to people who have had diabetes for 50 years.
Chris Rea – Singer/Songwriter diagnosed Type 1 following removal of pancreas and other organs to treat cancer.
Simon Biagi – TV Presenter.
Nicole Johnson – Crowned Miss America in 1999 – diagnosed Type 1 aged 18 years she works as an international diabetes advocate and travels the globe to speak out about the cause and has become a role model for many young people affected by the disease.
Tara Moran – UK Actress – (including Spooks, the Bill, Doctors, Judge John Deed, Heartbeat) Type 1 diagnosed in 1976 aged 6.
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