Originally published on 10/10/25

Everyone knows Neil Diamond. Between his loveable personality and a song catalogue that includes “Sweet Caroline,” the 84-year-old is truly a legend. In fact, people love him so much that the Children’s Diabetes Foundation (CDF) decided to honor him with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 39th Annual Carousel Ball. Woman’s World recently caught up with Diamond to discuss not only his award, but his health as well. Read on to discover what the singer had to say. 

Neil Diamond receives the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Carousel Ball

On October 11, Diamond will be given the Lifetime Achievement Award by the CDF, a Colorado based organization that he has served as an advisory board member on for several years. 

“Neil has had a deep and enduring connection to the Children’s Diabetes Foundation for decades. His bond with Colorado is personal—his son attended college here and he’s always considered the state a second home. Neil developed a warm friendship with my mom, Barbara Davis, and over the years he’s been both a performer and a steadfast supporter, attending The Carousel Ball and other events numerous times. He has performed for CDF on three separate occasions, including once in Los Angeles and twice in Colorado, but his presence and generosity have extended far beyond the stage,” event chair Dana Davis said. 

“This award, given only three times in our 50-year history, is reserved for those whose career achievements are matched by a lifetime of philanthropy and a long history of dedication to CDF,” she continued. “Honoring Neil is deeply meaningful because he embodies both excellence in his field and genuine compassion for our cause.” 

And while Diamond himself is excited to achieve the award, at the end of the day it’s his involvement with the organization that means the most to him. 

“Organizations like the Children’s Diabetes Foundation are essential in helping them stay healthy and strong and it is an honor to be part of what the center is doing—helping thousands of children and adults each year, not just here in Denver, but around the world,” he told Woman’s World.

The story behind Neil Diamond’s viral duet with George Clooney

Back in 2012, while attending the ball, Diamond and Oscar-winning actor George Clooney decided to team up and sing “Sweet Caroline.” The moment naturally went viral and now, 12 years later, Davis is sharing some behind-the-scenes details from that special night.

“The duet with George Clooney will always be a standout moment. I was standing just a couple of feet away, watching them sing their hearts out—it was electric. Another unforgettable memory was his most recent Denver performance. Neil gives 150% on stage, and his charisma draws people in like nothing else,” she said. “I remember elegant guests rushing toward the stage in pure excitement—some even tossed personal mementos in his direction! It was a testament to the ‘it’ factor he possesses—his music, his presence and his genuine heart all shine through, making every performance unforgettable.” 

Neil Diamond reflects on health and happiness in his 80s

As mentioned above, the Carousel Ball is put on to help raise awareness for type 1 diabetes, and while Diamond himself doesn’t have it, working with the Children’s Diabetes Foundation has helped him focus more on his health as a whole

“Over the past few years, I’ve really come to appreciate how vital health is to being able to pursue your dreams and do what you love in life,” he said. “For that reason (and many others), I am happy to be working with the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes and to see the incredible impact that their research and education have on the lives of families affected by diabetes.” 

Davis added onto that, saying, “Neil’s global fan base is extraordinary and we hope that by celebrating his involvement with CDF, more people will learn about type 1 diabetes, the importance of research and the work we do. When people see a cause that Neil is passionate about, they are more likely to explore it themselves. Our hope is that this recognition will inspire many to contribute—whether by donating, advocating or simply becoming more informed about the disease and its impact.” 

The inspiring legacy of Bill and Deb MacMillan’s dedication to the Children’s Diabetes Foundation

Also receiving an award at the 39th Annual Carousel Ball are Bill and Deb MacMillan, a couple who have dedicated almost 30 years of their lives to raising awareness for CDF, a cause that became even more personal when their own grandson was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. 

“Their generosity has ranged from major donations—like funding a pediatric room at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes—to partnering with our Guild on initiatives like Jewels for Hope. They’ve been donors, volunteers and advocates since nearly the beginning, always ready to help however they can. Their commitment has been unwavering and their contributions have touched every corner of our work,” Davis said. 

“When a longtime supporter like the MacMillan family becomes personally affected, it deepens our shared mission. Their grandson’s journey with type 1 has inspired others and reinforced the importance of community,” she continued. “They have allowed CDF to rally around them just as they have rallied around others for decades, embodying the mutual support that defines our organization.” 

For more on the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, click here! 

Link to original: https://www.womansworld.com/entertainment/celebrities/neil-diamond-on-his-health-and-truth-behind-george-clooney-duet-exclusive