Andrea met the Kids with Courage founder Daphna Bottcher 5 years after Andrea’s daughter, Rhyann was diagnosed with T1D. Rhyann was the only T1D at her preschool and grade school. She never met another T1D until meeting Daphna’s child McGwire. Andrea and Daphna’s meeting was out of necessity and desperation. Rhyann’s school was resistant to making school accommodations and Daphna provided insight on the capabilities of developing a 504 Plan for Rhyann. Andrea underestimated the how 3 little numbers, 504, would develop her compassion for other T1D children and families. Over the course of 4 years, the school finally agreed to accommodations and district policy changes that not only protect Rhyann, but future T1D students. Andrea has a passion for providing support and resources for families fighting school issues.
What I do at Kids With Courage: As a KWC Director, I am here to help in whatever way I can. I love helping with their big event in November, One Inspired Evening. In the future, I would love to facilitate events to help bring T1D families together. Every T1D kids should have opportunities to meet other T1D’s. Parents should have opportunities to share their stories and ask questions to other families.
What I like most about being involved with KWC: I love being that veteran T1D Mom who can provide a listening ear, a heartfelt hug and reassurance words that every newly diagnosed family member needs to hear.
If I could meet one person from the past or present, who would it be and why?
Place I would love to travel: Japan
What are your hobbies? I love to bake/cook. I enjoy a good workout, from weight lifting to cardio to walking my Heinz 57 dog.
Many people would be surprised if they knew I… I’m an introvert by nature, but after Rhyann’s diagnosis, I have adapted to being an extrovert, because as a parent we are the best advocate for our children!