There are links below containing information about the Joslin Medalist Program. If you scroll to the bottom of the page on the first link, you will find a printable application form. They want proof that you have been a diabetic for at least 50 years. When I saw that form a few years ago I thought I could not join because my parents were deceased, my doctor from my diagnosis year was deceased and the hospital where I was admitted keeps records for only the past 10 years. I had no proof I had diabetes for at least 50 years. Then I found that I could have my sister and cousin write letters telling about their memories of what happened in those early years after I was diagnosed . They sent their letters to me and I sent them along with my application form to the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston, MA. They were accepted as proof and I received the medal.
If you want the medal, you have had diabetes for at least 50 years, and you have proof then it is easy to apply. If you do not have proof then you can have people who knew you during the year you were diagnosed or the next few years after the diagnosis write letters for you. Two or three letters are requested if there is no other proof you can give them.
Here is the link containing the application form. You have to use a printer and run off a copy of the application form. You can also call Joslin and tell them you are applying and ask questions. The phone numbers are on the link.
http://www.joslin.org/Files/Medalist2006Packet.pdf
The second link gives more general information about the Joslin Medalist Program and some of the history involved.
http://www.joslin.org/733_Medalist.asp
The person to contact fpr more information is given here:
Leah Whelan
Study Coordinator
50 – Year Medalist Study
Joslin Diabetes Center
One Joslin Place
Boston, MA 02215
Leah.whelan@joslin.harvard.edu
Internal Extension: 4345