Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation praises Senator Collins

Senator Collins received this letter recently from the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation:

Dear Senator Collins:

On behalf of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF), I would like to thank you for your ongoing and consistent leadership in funding type 1 diabetes research. We appreciate your guidance throughout this succesful reauthorization process for the Special Diabetes Program as well as your vote in support of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (H.R.6331). Now with the two-year renewal of the Special Diabetes Program included in the bill, we not only have avoided a 35 percent cut in federal funding for type 1 diabetes research but scientists across the nation can continue their research efforts for a three-year cycle. JDRF is pleased and grateful that, with your leadership and that of the Diabetes Caucus which yo co-chair, Congress has made the future of this program a priority.

As you well know, JDRF is dedicated to funding research to find a cure for type 1 diabetes and the complications of the disease as quickly as possible. We remain committed to being a strong partner with Congress; this year we expect to fund nearly $200 million in diabetes research. Together, we will achieve our shared goal of a cure.

Thank you for your dedication to those with diabetes and for funding type 1 diabetes research through the Special Diabetes Program. Please know that millions of children, adults, and their families across the nation that live with type 1 diabetes everyday are grateful for your support.

Sincerely,

Lawrence A. Soler
Vice President, Government Relations