#USA #Washington, D.C. #Type 1 Diabetes #Breakthrough T1D #Children's Congress

Stars Shine a Light on Type 1 Diabetes at The Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children's Congress

The upcoming Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children's Congress is set to be an impactful event, bringing together youth delegates from every state in America along with international affiliates to advocate for significant changes in type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and policy. Scheduled from July 7 to 9 in Washington D.C., the gathering aims to unite young individuals living with T1D with lawmakers, enabling these youth advocates to voice their concerns and aspirations directly.

What is the Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children's Congress?

Formerly known as JDRF, Breakthrough T1D is a global leader in T1D research and advocacy. This year marks a special occasion, as the Congress provides a platform not just for youth delegates but also includes prominent celebrity role models who understand T1D's challenges and complexities. These stars carry personal stories that resonate with many and will help draw attention to the urgent need for curing T1D.

According to the organization, over 1.5 million Americans currently live with this condition, characterized by the body’s inability to produce insulin, thus requiring constant monitoring and insulin therapy.

Advocacy Goals

The main focus of the 2025 Children's Congress is to push for the renewal of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP). This vital program has been essential in advancing T1D research by allocating funds for clinical trials and innovative treatments. Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., CEO of Breakthrough T1D, underscored the importance of maintaining funding for such programs:

“The Special Diabetes Program supports critical research, including trials for cell therapies that are paving the way to T1D cures.” With Congress set to decide on the future of the SDP in September, the timing of this Congress could not be more critical.

Celebrity Role Models

A diverse roster of celebrity role models will join the youth delegates to raise awareness about T1D. Among the role models is esteemed shoe designer Thom Solo, diagnosed at a young age, who embodies resilience and inspires young delegates to believe in change. Additionally, Katie Bone, an American Ninja Warrior champion, will share her journey and the adjustments she has made while living with T1D. The role models aim to empower delegates, showcasing that living with T1D can align with achieving significant personal milestones and contribute towards meaningful advocacy.

Other notable celebrities include:

• - Caron Butler, NBA coach and veteran, who is a parent to a child with T1D.
• - Bambi Northwood-Blyth, a globally recognized supermodel and T1D advocate.
• - Madison Carter, a broadcast journalist, who also lives with the condition.
• - Ava August, a singer-songwriter and American Idol finalist, along with Marlee Fray, a professional soccer player, both representing how diverse backgrounds come together under the shared experience of T1D.

The Impact of the Congress

This biennial event not only aims to spotlight the challenges faced by youth living with T1D but also seeks to inspire legislative changes that can unlock funding for critical research. Families and delegates will take over Capitol Hill, sharing their personal stories, contributing to a collective narrative that emphasizes the urgency of T1D research. The Congress serves as a reminder of the power of community and advocacy in correcting disparities in healthcare and pushing for positive change in policies affecting individuals with type 1 diabetes.

A Call to Action

As the days of the Congress approach, it’s crucial to rally support for this event. We urge everyone to stay informed, spread awareness, and pressure lawmakers about the importance of renewing the SDP and supporting T1D research initiatives. The futures of many children and families depend on unleashing scientific breakthroughs that could potentially lead to cures and improved living conditions for those affected by type 1 diabetes. To learn more about Breakthrough T1D and their initiatives, please visit BreakthroughT1D.org.