Thyroid Federation International

Thyroid Federation International.
Working for the benefit of thyroid patients worldwide.

In Loving Memory of our First President, Dr. Larry Wood, 1935-2026

We mourn the passing of Dr Larry Wood, the first President and Founder of Thyroid Federation International (TFI), who passed away peacefully on Jan 30^th, 2026, at the age of 90 at Salt Lake City, Utah. He served as the President of the Federation from 1995 to 2003.

Dr Larry wood was more than a leader; he was a visionary whose dedication, integrity, and compassion laid the foundation for everything our organization stands for today. As one of the founding forces behind Thyroid Federation International he believed deeply in our mission and worked tirelessly to serve our community with purpose and dignity.

Dr Larry Wood was also the Founder of Thyroid Foundation of America, he co-authored “Your Thyroid: A Home Reference” along with Dr David Cooper. He graduated from Princeton University and then studied Medicine at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He also served as a Captain in the US Army and was posted at the General Hospital Landstuhl, Germany from 1965-68. Subsequently, he conducted Thyroid Research in Boston. He practiced medicine (Endocrinology) at Boston and retired from private practice in 2006. He was loved by his patients and colleagues alike.

On behalf of our TFI Board, members, and community, we extend our deepest condolences to Shann, his wife, and his family, friends, and all who were influenced by his remarkable life.

As the third President of Thyroid Federation International, I am profoundly grateful for the path he paved before us. We honor his legacy by continuing the work he began and by upholding the values he held so dear.

May Dr Larry Woods' memory be a blessing and a lasting source of inspiration.

Ashok Bhaseen, M. Pharm, MMS
President, Thyroid Federation International

Thyroid Federation International aims to work for the benefit of those affected by thyroid disorders throughout the world. From the patients’ side, it is within our mission to educate and inform, emphasize the importance of thyroid health, and increase awareness of thyroid diseases (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, Graves’ Disease, Thyroid Eye Disease, thyroid cancer, MCT8 deficiency, and other thyroid conditions). We work to highlight the prevalence of thyroid diseases and promote understanding of the advances made in treating thyroid conditions. Similarly, it is our important goal to encourage and assist the creation of thyroid patient organizations. Furthermore, we collaborate with medical professionals, endocrinologists, and experts in thyroidology to ensure a better understanding of thyroid disorders and their complications. Through member organizations, we provide information and support for those impacted by thyroid conditions. We promote thyroid education and research related to thyroid disorders.

Our impact

Global Outreach

As thyroid disorders impact many people worldwide, we seek to establish local thyroid patient organizations in many countries to support people who need further information and help.

Doctors

Doctors benefit as we provide them with information about the quality of life experienced by thyroid patients. Similarly, we gain important evidence-based information from doctors that we can pass on to patients.

Patients

Patients benefit because we listen to their concerns. Many patients raise interesting points for discussion that we pass on to the doctors. In turn, many patients volunteer to help develop patient organizations in their country.