Neil Diamond at 84: "Sweet Caroline" Legend and Collaborator with Cher & Barbra Streisand — See Him Now
Neil Diamond Honored at Carousel of Hope Ball for Diabetes Research
Legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond, 84, received the “Inspirational Lifetime Achievement Award” at the 39th Annual Carousel of Hope Ball in Denver, celebrating his decades-long career and dedication to diabetes research. The event, hosted by the Children’s Diabetes Foundation (CDF), raised $2 million this year, bringing its total contributions to $119 million since 1978.
[Image: Neil Diamond at the event, wearing all black, waving to the crowd. Caption: Neil Diamond accepts his award at the Carousel of Hope Ball.]
A Music Icon’s Legacy
Diamond, known for timeless hits like Sweet Caroline, Cracklin’ Rosie, and Forever in Blue Jeans, has sold over 130 million records worldwide. Beyond his solo success, he penned classics for artists like the Monkees (I’m a Believer) and collaborated with Barbra Streisand on You Don’t Bring Me Flowers. His accolades include induction into the Rock & Roll and Songwriters Halls of Fame, a Grammy, and a Golden Globe.
[Image: Diamond performing in the 1970s. Caption: Neil Diamond during his 1970s heyday.]
A Night for a Cause
The Carousel Ball supports the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes (BDC), a leading institution in type 1 diabetes care and research. Founded in 1978 by Barbara and Marvin Davis after their daughter Dana’s diagnosis, the BDC provides cutting-edge treatment to over 8,000 patients globally, many from low-income backgrounds.
Dana Davis opened the evening, reflecting on 50 years of progress: “We’ve advanced life-changing technologies, but our goal is to accelerate the next 50 years of breakthroughs into 25.”
[Image: Dana Davis speaking at the event. Caption: Dana Davis honors her parents’ legacy at the gala.]
Diamond’s Heartfelt Speech
Diamond, joined by wife Katie and son Jesse, accepted his award with gratitude: “I’ve been through it all, and I’m still coming back for more. I’m proud to champion this cause.” A video tribute featured Hugh Jackman praising Diamond’s “authenticity” and Luke Bryan joking that Sweet Caroline “saves every concert.”
[Image: Diamond with Katie and Jesse. Caption: Neil Diamond with wife Katie and son Jesse.]
Star-Studded Performances
The Goo Goo Dolls energized the crowd with hits like Iris and Slide, while Diamond joined Broadway’s Nick Fradiani for a nostalgic Sweet Caroline duet—a nod to his 2012 viral performance with George Clooney at a prior gala.
[Image: Goo Goo Dolls performing. Caption: The Goo Goo Dolls close the night with a hit-filled set.]
Honoring Advocates
The MacMillan Family received the “High Hopes Tribute Award” for their 30+ years of support. Family member Darius Anderson, who lives with type 1 diabetes, accepted the honor.
Why It Matters
Type 1 diabetes affects 9.5 million globally, with 64,000 U.S. diagnoses annually—30,000 being children. Funds from the Ball aid the BDC’s research and care for underserved patients.
[Image: Attendees at the auction. Caption: Guests bid on luxury items to support diabetes research.]
Diamond’s enduring influence and the Carousel Ball’s mission underscored a night where music and philanthropy united for hope.
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