Elizabeth Hughes Gossett

American diabetes patient and advocate

Elizabeth Hughes Gossett (August 19, 1907 – April 21, 1981) was an American woman who became one of the first people to be treated with insulin for type 1 diabetes. Her treatment marked a significant milestone in the history of diabetes management and showcased the potential of insulin therapy.

Early Life

Elizabeth Hughes was born in New York City, the daughter of Charles Evans Hughes, a prominent lawyer and politician who served as Governor of New York, United States Secretary of State, and Chief Justice of the United States. Her mother, Antoinette Carter Hughes, was active in social causes. Elizabeth grew up in a privileged environment, receiving a high-quality education and exposure to influential figures of her time.

Diagnosis and Early Struggles

In 1919, at the age of 11, Elizabeth was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, a condition that was considered a death sentence at the time. The only treatment available was a strict starvation diet, which aimed to prolong life by reducing the intake of carbohydrates and calories. Despite following this regimen, Elizabeth's health continued to decline, and her weight dropped to a dangerously low level.

Insulin Treatment

Elizabeth Hughes Gossett

In 1922, Elizabeth became one of the first patients to receive insulin, a groundbreaking treatment developed by Frederick Banting and Charles Best at the University of Toronto. Her treatment began under the supervision of Dr. Frederick Allen and Dr. Elliott Joslin, who were pioneers in diabetes care. The introduction of insulin transformed Elizabeth's life, allowing her to regain her health and live a relatively normal life.

Later Life and Advocacy

After her recovery, Elizabeth Hughes went on to lead a full and active life. She attended Barnard College, where she excelled academically. In 1930, she married William T. Gossett, a lawyer and executive, and they had three children together. Elizabeth became an advocate for diabetes awareness and the importance of insulin therapy, sharing her story to inspire others and promote advancements in diabetes treatment.

Legacy

Elizabeth Hughes Gossett's life and recovery from diabetes were pivotal in demonstrating the life-saving potential of insulin. Her story is often cited as a testament to the impact of medical innovation and the importance of continued research in the field of endocrinology. Her experience helped to change public perceptions of diabetes and contributed to the development of more effective treatments for the disease.

Related Pages

• Insulin
• Frederick Banting
• Charles Best
• Type 1 diabetes
• Frederick Allen
• Elliott Joslin