I met Hannah Raskin-Gross in line on the first day of pre-K! Hannah and her family introduced me to the world of rare disease advocacy through her brother Ben's experience with congenital hyperinsulinism (HI). Ben, Hannah, Julie, and Mark are fierce advocates of research, expert care, early detection, awareness, and fundraising to better the lives of patients with HI. Fast forward to 2021- I am a pediatric genetic counselor working with rare disease families every day, and did my master's capstone project on the power of rare disease advocacy groups. Much of my path was put into motion with the influence of CHI and the Raskin-Gross Family. 

Congenital Hyperinsulinism International is a global lifeline to those born with HI. We strongly believe in a bright future for babies, children, and adults, where HI is promptly diagnosed, and those with HI do not suffer preventable brain damage or death. We are equally focused on new treatments and a cure, so people with HI can lead full and long lives not ruled by blood sugar level, where they can eat normally and participate in all the activities they choose. A "future without lows" will happen when everyone born with HI has access to medication, surgery, blood sugar testing supplies, or a cure. Our vision is to end brain damage and death from the condition and for HI families to live without fear of hypoglycemia.