Chevy Chase, MD-- The nomination of Federal Appeals Court Judge Sonia Sotomayor to serve as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice shows that there are no physical or intellectual limits to what persons with Type 1 diabetes are capable of achieving, says Robert A. Vigersky, MD, president-elect of The Endocrine Society.

“President Obama has demonstrated that he understands that persons with Type 1 diabetes who are provided modern medical treatment are not only capable of normal physical and intellectual accomplishments, but can be productive throughout an extended life span and soar to the highest possible achievements in their chosen fields of endeavors,” Vigersky said. “We applaud the president’s action as one consistent with the view of the physicians and other health professionals who treat this disease and the scientists who perform research to find its cure.”

The Endocrine Society fully expects the U.S. Senate to examine Judge Sotomayor’s background, experience and judicial qualifications as lawmakers pursue the confirmation process. But the Society is confident that her diabetes will play no role in determining whether Judge Sotomayor should be appointed to the highest court in the land.  

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Founded in 1916, The Endocrine Society is the world's oldest, largest, and most active organization devoted to research on hormones and the clinical practice of endocrinology. Today, The Endocrine Society's membership consists of over 14,000 scientists, physicians, educators, nurses and students in more than 80 countries. Together, these members represent all basic, applied, and clinical interests in endocrinology. The Endocrine Society is based in Chevy Chase, Md. To learn more about the Society, and the field of endocrinology, visit our web site at www.endo-society.org.