This month, our chapter had the privilege of sending three hand-selected delegates, ranging in age from 11 to 17, to climb Capitol Hill to educate their legislators about the urgent need for funding for T1D research. They joined over 100 other children living with T1D in experiencing the unique and empowering opportunity to help Members of Congress understand what life with T1D is like and why research to find the cure for diabetes is so critical. We were proud to have Craig Kleinman, 17, Amelia Rehrman, 11, and Brett Rubin, 13, representing JDRF Eastern PA in D.C. this week!

Beginning at Noon on Monday, July 8, the delegates joined singer/songwriter Crystal Bowersox for a ‘Promise to Remember Me’ song performance, followed by a ‘Role Models in Diabetes’ town hall session on Tuesday, July 9. The town hall was the delegates opportunity to share how they overcome the challenges of living with T1D in their everyday lives. Wednesday’s session – ‘Diabetes Research: Reducing the Burden of Diabetes at All Ages and Stages’ – was hosted by the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging and featured testimonies by: Emmy-winning actress Jean Smart, NBA All-Star Ray Allen and his son Walker, a CC Delegate from Florida, CC Delegate Quinn Ferguson (ME), JDRF CEO Jeffrey Brewer, and Dr. Griffin Rodgers, Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases at NIH.

The Children’s Congress offered our delegates the opportunity to form bonds with other children living with T1D, rally in support of a cause that they’re passionate about, and get a close glimpse into our country’s legislative system – a truly inspiring mission to Washington, D.C.

Brett Rubin’s dedication, passion, and commitment to the JDRF mission have been the driving force in his advocacy efforts and close relationship with local Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick.

The JDRF Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter is lucky to call Brett a Junior Ambassador for the Chapter and an important member of the JDRF team. Brett has been busy spreading the word about Children’s Congress and JDRF Advocacy all over Eastern PA! Please be sure to check out some of Brett’s features in  local publications: Council Rock Student Taking on Diabetes and Youthful Energy: Richboro boy again taking fight against Type 1 Diabetes to Washington, D.C

Thank you so much to Brett, Amelia, and Craig for your dedication and outstanding advocacy efforts!