Actor Jerry Mathers (a.k.a. “The Beave”) of Leave it to Beaver will address 400 people living with – or at risk for – diabetes at a free “Living Healthy with Diabetes” conference on Fri., Feb. 28, 2014. The event is hosted by PanCare of Florida, Inc. and will take place at the Holley Academic Center on Florida State University’s Panama City campus and is funded in part by Bay Health Foundation and Big Bend Health Council.

“Everyone facing the threat of diabetes or who are living with the disease is encouraged to attend this all-day event,” said Mike Hill, president and CEO of PanCare of Florida. “Mr. Mathers is an American icon who is living with type 2 diabetes” he says, “and we are delighted that he will be with us as the featured speaker to discuss how diabetes has impacted not only his own life, but American lives since his days on the set of Leave it to Beaver.”

Born on June 2, 1948 in Sioux City, Iowa, Mathers’ television and show business career began at the tender age of 2 when he did a Pet Condensed Milk commercial with Ed Wynn on the “Colgate Comedy Hour.” He continued to work on many of the early ‘50’s television shows and in 1954, he made his movie debut co-starring with Linda Darnell in “This Is My Love.” He then caught the attention of Alfred Hitchcock who signed him for the 1955 film, “The Trouble With Harry,” starring John Forsythe and Shirley MacLaine in what was her very first film role. The budding young actor next appeared in two Bob Hope movies, “The Seven Little Foys” and “That Certain Feeling.” Two movies with Alan Ladd followed, “The Deep Six” and “Men of the Fighting Lady.”

It was in 1957 however; with the debut of the series “Leave It To Beaver” that Mathers entered the hearts and homes of America. An immediate success, the show gained national attention and ran for six seasons totaling 234 episodes. When it celebrated its 50th anniversary on Oct. 4, 2007, the show became the longest running scripted show in television history.

In the mid 90s Mathers was diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes. He took preventative action, lost 55 pounds and is currently one of the leading lecturers on living with and dealing with diabetes.

His presentation at the “Living Healthy with Diabetes” conference will begin at 9 a.m. General and breakout sessions will follow relating to understanding, managing and the best chances for reversing the disease. To pre-register, visit www.PanCareFL.org or call (850) 951-2202. Free diabetic-friendly lunch included.