The Breakthrough T1D Mid-Atlantic chapter is thrilled to announce that seven outstanding youth from Maryland and Virginia will be heading to Capitol Hill this summer as Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children’s Congress Delegates.
Every two years, more than 160 children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) between the ages of 4 – 17 gather in Washington, DC to meet face-to-face with some of the top decision-makers in the U.S. Government. The selected Delegates represent all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as Breakthrough T1D’s five International Affiliates. As participants in Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress, Delegates have a unique and empowering opportunity to help Members of Congress understand what life with T1D is like, while forming lasting bonds with fellow youth who live with this autoimmune disease.
Delegates form lifelong friendships, meet T1D role models, develop leadership skills, and leave Children’s Congress empowered to use their voices for the change that will improve their lives and the lives of all people affected by T1D.
Meet the Mid-Atlantic Chapter Delegates
Raelynn, 10
Painter, Virginia
Raelynn has been living with T1D for two and a half years. Although it takes a little extra prep and planning, having T1D has not stopped Raelynn from doing what she loves to do including ballet, gymnastics, and softball. When Raelynn was diagnosed, her family decided to share their journey on social media. She loves making site-change videos to help the kids who are making site changes themselves. She spends much of her time encouraging other kids with T1D never to let it hold them back. Learn more about Raelynn’s journey!
Grace, 17
Arlington, Virginia
Since her diagnosis with T1D at age 4, Grace and her family have made the Breakthrough T1D Walks an annual tradition, celebrating advancements in treatment and the ongoing pursuit of a cure. Grace’s largest Walk team of nearly 100 participants reflects the strong network of family and friends who have supported her along the way. The kindness and expertise of Grace’s amazing doctors and nurses over the years have helped her learn to manage T1D and have inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. Learn more about Grace’s journey!
Renae, 16
North Chesterfield, Virginia
Renae was diagnosed with T1D when she was in second grade. She remembers going to one of her first T1D events as a kid and feeling encouraged by all the other young people with T1D. Today Renae is a sophomore in high school and loves to perform! She is an active member of her school’s theater program and serves as a dance captain in her school’s competitive show choir, which recently won first place in their division. Renae loves using dancing to lower her blood sugars when they are high. Learn more about Renae’s journey!
Jordan, 17
Ashburn, Virginia
Jordan was diagnosed with T1D in 2012. She remembers staying in the pediatric ICU and a kind nurse giving her a stuffed bear named Rufus. Rufus had T1D just like her! She recently obtained her brown belt in Goju-Do and also loves archery, writing, photography, and learning new things. Jordan is very proud that she can advocate for topics she is passionate about, including T1D. When she grows up, Jordan wants to research and study infectious diseases. Learn more about Jordan’s journey!
Andrew, 14
Bethesda, Maryland
Diagnosed with T1D the day after his 7th birthday, Andrew recalls how his entire family and community rallied around him during the Breakthrough T1D Walk shortly after his diagnosis. The overwhelming support he received made him feel more at ease with his condition and inspired him to offer the same kind of support to others facing similar challenges. Today Andrew can often be found in one of three places: on the hockey rink, in his workshop, or outdoors, typically enjoying time on the water. Learn more about Andrew’s journey!
Georgia, 11
Alexandria, Virginia
Georgia received her diagnosis on October 1, 2024. She was given amazing support from her friends at school, who took turns taking her to the nurse for her insulin shots before lunch. Now that she’s on a pump, she’s able to enjoy more time at recess! Georgia is active in lacrosse, tennis, basketball, and swimming. The activity mode on her insulin pump has been great at preventing the lows that come as a result of all-day lacrosse tournaments.
Learn more about Georgia’s journey!
Makeda, 16
Springfield, Virginia
Makeda was diagnosed with T1D shortly after her 9th birthday. She vividly remembers getting her face painted and playing games with a patient care nonprofit during the hospital visit, which brought her so much comfort and joy during that challenging time. This experience inspired Makeda to start The Cure for All Club at her high school, which organizes card and cookie drives to cheer up children in local hospitals and raise awareness for a variety of autoimmune diseases. Learn more about Makeda’s journey!
