Tamarac incoming junior Danielle Stackrow traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to meet with
U.S. Representatives and Senators to raise awareness of Cystic Fibrosis.
Danielle, who spent the day on Capitol Hill with 50 students representing 20 states, attended six meetings with different New York State representatives include Chris Gibson and Paul Tonko.
Danielle told the story of living with two family members, her mother and younger brother, both who have Cystic Fibrosis. The students urged members of Congress to support funding for the National Institute of Health and the Food and Drug Administration as well as access to specialized, affordable Cystic Fibrosis care.
“This was such a life changing experience to help be a part of changing thousands of people’s lives," said Danielle.
Danielle noted new medications are being approved each year which help lengthen the lives of loves ones with Cystic Fibrosis. In the past few months, for example, a new drug Kalydeco has been approved and is attacking the disease at the genetic level.
“I am grateful to have this opportunity to be able to make changes in this world!” Danielle said.
Last school year, Danielle also organized a group of nearly two dozen students and parents in a walk for Cystic Fibrosis. Her group, named “Life for Lynn” in honor of her mom, raised more than $2,500 to help find a cure to the disease.
Congratulations Danielle!
