The Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) Children’s Congress advocacy program was inspired by a boy from Massachusetts named Tommy Solo. One day, at age nine, he asked his mother, “Why can’t kids go to Washington and tell their Representatives about what it is like to have type 1 diabetes T1D and let them know that we want scientists to find a cure?” His mom and other volunteers agreed and, in 1999, the first-ever Children’s Congress took place in Washington, D.C. Since then, Children’s Congress has been held every other year, and more than 1,200 kids with type 1 diabetes (T1D) have served as Delegates.

The Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress will convene in Washington D.C. in July 2025.

From September 4 through November 24, 2024, youth with T1D will have the opportunity to apply for this once-in-a-lifetime experience to engage in leadership and character-building programming, and to meet with Federal decision makers to advocate for continued research, and policies that promote affordability, choice, and coverage. Learn more and apply starting September 3.

We caught up with several past Children’s Congress Delegates who represented the state of California and asked them what they learned from their experience, how it has had a positive impact on their lives, and why they think kids with T1D should apply.

Will Chisholm – 2013 Delegate at age 15

I am currently living in Philadelphia where I am attending business school, and for the past few years I have worked as a strategy consultant and quantitative trader. I love chess and have recently gotten back into the game, playing my first over the board tournament in almost 20 years earlier this summer. I also played soccer in college and still get out on the field whenever I can.

Children’s Congress allowed me to feel like I was making a difference not only in my own life, but in the lives of the fellow people living with T1D who had made the trip to Washington DC with me.

I encourage anyone interested to apply for the 2025 Children’s Congress, not only for the chance to impact and improve policies around T1D, but also for the experience and community that Children’s Congress affords.

Hannah Gammon – 2013 Delegate at age 15

I am now 26, and live in San Francisco, CA. I currently work remotely for Tandem Diabetes, where I am a Pump Sales Seller. I also work as a camp counselor for Diabetes Youth Families in the summer. I also volunteer at their weekend retreats throughout the year. When I am not working, I love getting outside and hiking, taking photos, and cooking/baking.

I loved Children’s Congress because it allowed me to expand my type 1 diabetes community and speak on why type 1 diabetes research is so important. I would highly recommend that kids apply for this opportunity. It was so cool to be able to travel to Washington DC and to meet so many people from across the country who understand what it’s like to have type 1 diabetes.

Sophia Honig – 2013 Delegate at age 7

I didn’t know it at the time but as I prepare for college I plan on pursuing a career in medicine/science. I never would have realized this without the help of the Children’s Congress. I saw what a positive impact it had on me and all the kids around me. It gave me a sense of community and showed me that I am not alone when it comes to diabetes.

At the moment I am preparing to be a senior in high school and exploring different options for my future career. I am working with many volunteer and wellness organizations to better my community. As well, I am speaking with many people about different research being done in the medical field regarding diabetes.

The Children’s Congress is something that every young person with type 1 diabetes should be able to experience. It shows how much power and strength each and every one of us holds. It will expand their mindset and show these children a whole new world.

Grace Juarez – 2019 Delegate at age 15

I am 20 years old, currently studying at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. I have always dreamed of traveling the world, but was worried how realistic that would be living with T1D. I am happy and proud to share that I plan to study abroad in Barcelona for 3 months later this year! I have accomplished everything I wanted to do, even with T1D. I am a member of the Young Adult Advocacy Council and am constantly advocating for T1D research and funding. I tackle every day one day at a time. I hope to inspire others living with T1D that your dreams and aspirations don’t have to be cut short because of your diagnosis.

Children’s Congress was a life-changing experience. It was a rewarding opportunity where I was given the platform to voice my opinions and fight for change that meant so much to me. It has taught me that you can do anything with hard work, passion, and perseverance. Being able to speak to members of Congress and the Senate, and seeing how they truly listened to me, showed me how impactful advocating for yourself and your community can be!

Type 1 diabetes does not have to hold you back from anything. Getting to travel to DC and advocate for your right to affordable health care and be an inspiration to people with T1D around the world is a surreal feeling. Take advantage of this amazing opportunity and believe in yourself!

Jamie Kurtzig – 2019 Delegate at age 15

I am currently an incoming junior studying bioengineering at Stanford, and I work part-time as a clinical research coordinator at Stanford Pediatric Endocrinology. I also love movies and am minoring in film.

Children’s Congress was important to me because it made me feel like I can make an impact by sharing my story. It’s very encouraging to know that there is a dedicated caucus of congresspeople that want to help people with diabetes. Being a Children’s Congress Delegate has inspired me to advocate for myself and others.

I think everyone should apply to be a Children’s Congress Delegate because you get to learn about how the government works, see Washington DC, meet lots of other young people with diabetes, and help make a difference in the world.

Thomas Screven – 2019 Delegate at age 16

I am currently an undergraduate student at UC Davis studying computer science.  This summer, I am conducting research in a UC Davis lab led by Dr. Sam King, focusing on computer science applications for type 1 diabetes management. I am working on developing physiological and machine learning models which can be used in fully automated closed loop systems.

It was inspiring to see the behind-the-scenes work that goes into legislation and research funding to improve both my life and the lives of all people with type 1 diabetes. This experience stirred me to continue to work towards a better future for the type 1 diabetes community.

Children’s Congress is a fun and inspirational experience. You will have the opportunity to make friends with other type one diabetics from across the country and contribute towards creating a better future.

Thank you to all past Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress Delegates! You have made a difference. Kids living with T1D, ages 4-17, can apply for the 2025 Children’s Congress starting September 3. Visit cc.breakthrought1d.org to learn more!