For Carol Meyrowitz, giving to Joslin is about compassion for children and admiration for Joslin’s efforts to involve the family in diabetes care. When Carol received the 2004 Woman of the Year Award from the Needlers Foundation (a philanthropic organization created by a group of apparel executives), she was able to designate who would receive the funds raised at the awards gala. Although she has no personal experience with diabetes, Carol selected Joslin to receive $754,000 in unrestricted support for work in the area of type 1 diabetes. “Joslin is doing so much good for kids with diabetes,” she explains. “This was a great opportunity for me to help foster the Center’s exemplary care, research and education.”
A Heart Touched
Last spring the successful businesswoman visited Joslin Clinic to witness first-hand the ultimate beneficiaries of her philanthropy. Carol spent time with Marissa, a Joslin Clinic patient who drew pictures of syringes and other diabetes care tools to illustrate what it takes to manage her diabetes. She was struck by the maturity with which Marissa and other children control a disease that needs attention whether they are at home or at school, and in fact every moment of their lives.
“It’s amazing how young patients deal with their disease,” Carol says, “but Joslin’s pediatric patients are particularly unique because of the exceptional care they receive at the Clinic. Joslin providers so positively affect kids with diabetes and their families that they see the Clinic as a safe haven—this touches my heart.”
All in the Family
As the outgoing President and Senior Executive Vice President of the Marmaxx Group and TJX Companies Inc., Carol knows plenty about business, clothing and style. But more importantly, as a mother of two children, she recognizes the precious value of good health and the role family can play in children’s healthcare.
Thus, Carol appreciates the holistic nature of JoslinCare. “The JoslinCare providers deal with both the physical and psychosocial aspects of diabetes and involve the family in the daily care of this lifelong disease. I am inspired by the vast range of work being done at the Center; Joslin providers not only help kids manage their diabetes, but they also work to uncover improved therapies—Joslin is a true lifesaver.”
As Carol steps down from her executive seat and begins the next chapter of her career, she plans to be more active as a Joslin Overseer. “This is a huge change in my life. I will be working more in balance, and my focus will be on giving back. I have had such good fortune in my career and with my family that I want to do whatever I can do for children.”
