— More than 160 children and celebrity advocates gathered on Capitol Hill to advocate for type 1 diabetes research —

Lili, 13, of Middleton was one of nearly 160 children, ages 4 to 17, who visited the nation’s capital as Delegates to JDRF 2017 Children’s Congress, held July 24-26. JDRF Children’s Congress is the largest grassroots event supporting type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Lili, who has lived with T1D for 8 years, was chosen through the JDRF Western Wisconsin Chapter to represent Wisconsin at this biennial event, along with Delegates representing all 50 states, and JDRF’s six international affiliate countries.

In between meeting kids from around the country and celebrity role models like Cory Vaughn, Lili lobbied members of Congress such as Elizabeth Warren to urge continued Federal Government support for T1D research that aims to reduce the burden of the disease and contribute to a cure.

The event culminated with a Congressional Committee hearing on Wednesday, July 26, 2017 which included testimony from select Delegates as well as Paul Sparks and Nicole Johnson. These personal testimonies drew attention to the daily struggles of those living with T1D and the need for continued research funding and support, such as renewal of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP).

The Delegates also took part in a T1D Role Model Town Hall where they were able to ask questions of the celebrities at the event. Lili asked House of Cards actor, Paul Sparks, where he went for support when he was diagnosed since his diagnosis happened as an adult.

“It was amazing to see so many other kids like me be able to influence government policy,” said Lili when asked about her Children’s Congress experience. “I think most people believe only adults are the movers and shakers in D.C., but we definitely made an impact. It was an exciting time to be in Washington D.C. with all the talks going on about healthcare!”

If you want to make a difference like Lili, sign up to be a JDRF Advocate. It’s quick, easy, and has the ability to make an impact on the lives of everyone affected by type 1 diabetes. Become an advocate today!