Post by Parth Gami

As someone who has lived with type 1 diabetes (T1D) for over 15 years, I am living proof of the impact that biomedical research—especially federally funded research—has made in advancing care for those with chronic diseases. Last week, I had the privilege to advocate with Breakthrough T1D on Capitol Hill for the renewal of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) and to rally support for key funding and staff at the NIH to ensure that groundbreaking T1D research can continue. As both a patient-advocate and biomedical researcher, I am committed to supporting policies that promote scientific discoveries that can directly improve the lives of people living with chronic diseases. From continuous glucose monitors to closed-loop insulin pumps, the SDP has funded the development of the technology that I rely on every day to manage my T1D. The progress made in the management of T1D, as well as the ongoing efforts to find a cure, is a direct result of the collaboration between government and industry funding. Thus, any reductions or lapses in funding could be detrimental to the progress we’ve made, with serious consequences for the millions of individuals who rely on these breakthroughs. Thank you to the members of Congress and their staffers for meeting with us and hearing our stories. I look forward to continuing to advocate for innovations in T1D care and the eventual development of a cure!