The Glaucoma Foundation was deeply saddened by the death of actress Kitty Carlisle Hart, a longtime friend of The Foundation and devoted advocate of its work. Ms. Hart died at her home in New York City on Tuesday, April 17, at the age of 96.

In 1999, in recognition of Ms. Hart's contributions to the battle against glaucoma, TGF created The Kitty Carlisle Hart Award of Merit for Lifetime Achievement in her honor. The actress not only responded with courage and distinction to the private challenge of coping with glaucoma, but lent her substantial prestige to The Foundation’s public education campaign, urging everyone to get their eyes tested regularly.

Ms. Hart felt strongly about the importance of public education and eye health. Together with Dr. Gregory Harmon, TGF’s Chairman, she filmed a public service announcement that aired nationwide. She understood that unless you have been tested, you can't know if you have glaucoma. As she wrote several years ago in the foreword to Dr. Harmon's book, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Glaucoma, "I am 93 years old and I have glaucoma. But I haven’t lost my sight. I haven't lost anything. That’s because once you know you have glaucoma, you can take steps to control it. That’s what I did."

A grande dame of American stage, television and film, Kitty Carlisle Hart Kitty led an extraordinary life with her late husband, the playwright Moss Hart. And some will remember her years as the elegant and charming panelist on "To Tell the Truth," the TV game show that ran for over 20 years.

Ms. Hart remained active until quite recently and continued to speak out for the arts and other causes, including public awareness about glaucoma. Last December, she was still able to attend The Glaucoma Foundation's "Black & White Ball," where she presented her award and sang to the delight and adulation of all the guests. A superb role model for all, she gave generously of her time, talents and energy and she will be sorely missed.