Rep. Robert Wexler (D–FL–19)

Meeting Summary

• Meeting held

Meeting Attendees:

Rose Marie Antonacci Pollock thanked Rep. Wexler for his support of diabetes initiatives benefiting research; she then told her personal story, her son Nicholas’ daily regimen, the cost of diabetes testing supplies, and the importance of diabetes management.  Rose Marie talked about the worries of every mom as their child grows older, becomes independent, and goes to college and the fear of night-time lows. Nicholas asked, “How I am going to stay up all night with blood sugar emergencies and then be able to attend early morning classes?” Rep. Wexler stated his support for JDRF – his best friend’s child was diagnosed with a severe form of Type 1 diabetes (suffers from diabetes related seizures) and it made an impact on him; however, even before this happened, he has always been aware of the toll of diabetes and is in full support of research.  Rose Marie said she wanted a cure, and felt like that “diabetes will be the first chronic disease since polio that will be cured” and Wexler agreed that it was his wish as well. Rose Marie then talked about the economic burdens related to treating diabetes; Rep. Wexler was most surprised by and interested in the direct Medicare costs associated with caring for diabetes.  Lora Hazelwood, Executive Director for the Greater Palm Beach County Chapter reiterated the total cost of diabetes in the U.S. alone. Lora then pointed out that the Special Diabetes Program is set to expire and that its renewal is imperative to continue federal funding for Type 1 research and the continuation of clinical trials.  Rep. Wexler seemed aware of this initiative, understood its importance, and offered his support. Nicholas then thanked Congressman Wexler for his support and asked him to “please remember me” when making decisions regarding diabetes. Present at the meeting were Rep. Wexler, Rose Marie Antonacci Pollock (board member, Greater Palm Beach County Chapter), Nicholas Pollock, age 9 (JDRF Youth Ambassador, son of Rose Marie, diagnosed at age 20 months), Lora Hazelwood, Executive Director, Greater Palm Beach County Chapter, and Theresa Brier, Broward County Coordinator for Rep. Wexler.