The catchphrase “T1D Changemakers” could very easily be interchangeable with “Advocacy Committee” here in the New Jersey Metro and Rockland County Chapter!

Led by T1D mom Lisa Clarke, who took on the role of  Advocacy Team Chair this past summer, the Advocacy Committee supports the legislative and policy priorities set forth by Breakthrough T1D Advocacy by helping to grow local volunteer advocates, taking action on alerts, building relationships with Members of Congress, participating in virtual campaigns, and sharing information on social media.

We asked our Advocacy Committee why they advocate for Breakthrough T1D and what they are most proud of. Here are a few of their answers:

Ryan: “I want to make a difference in my community and I am passionate about making our ‘invisible’ condition visible to the world. I want to eliminate all stigmas around T1D and show the world how people living with T1D can do anything they put their mind to. ”

Samhitha: “It is important to educate others and vocalize issues surrounding T1D that only a small percentage of the population know. One of the proudest moments I have experienced being a Breakthrough T1D Advocate was raising an incredible amount of money at the Gala that will be put towards a cure!”

Kim: “I’m a T1D mom. I knew nothing about T1D before my son’s diagnosis, so now I advocate to raise awareness about T1D and to do my part to make sure everyone is aware of how important research funding is. The research that Breakthrough T1D funds is crucial to helping to find a cure for my son and all others with T1D.”

Dan: “I believe in creating a better world for people with T1D. As a patient, Breakthrough T1D has created a community for me in which I fit in. Breakthrough T1D is at the forefront of advocating for affordable insulin, pumps, and sensors for people with type 1 diabetes. Their advocacy and research funding have had an innumerable impact on my life and others. I’m excited to continue to be part of its mission.”

Are you interested in becoming an Advocate? Visit www.breakthrought1d.org/join now and see how you can make an impact as well.