DENVER , Nov. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of Bette M. Morris' foundational vision and her enduring legacy of support, Morris Animal Foundation is proud to announce the naming of the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study Data Commons & Biorepository as the Bette M.
Morris Data Commons & Biorepository . This tribute reflects Bette's pivotal role in shaping the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study , one of the largest and most comprehensive health studies in veterinary medicine. More than 12 years ago, Bette championed the Foundation's ambitious endeavor to launch the largest study in veterinary research history.
Her vision was clear: gather longevity data and biological samples from a cohort of 3,000 golden retrievers to address fundamental questions about the sources, causes and treatments of the five most common canine cancers. Bette's commitment has been instrumental in developing a research foundation akin to the Framingham Heart Study in human medicine, which transformed our understanding of cardiovascular health and inspired life-saving treatments. Her dedication has made a similar promise now a reality for canine cancer researchers, allowing nested studies that address questions previously inconceivable.
The daughter-in-law of the Foundation's founder, Dr. Mark L. Morris Sr.
, Bette has served with distinction as a Trustee and now Trustee Emeritus. Her sustained advocacy has been critical to the Study's success, particularly in advancing impactful research and training .