Read about how the Pennsylvania McLaughlin Family is fundraising for Congenital Hyperinsulinism International while raising awareness.
Julie Raskin: I am so impressed that you and Jack have taken the initiative to organize “Dress Down Days” at school to benefit Congenital Hyperinsulinism International, the organization dedicated to improving the lives of patients with congenital hyperinsulinism. You obviously have a family tradition of helping others. What inspired you and Jack to do this?
Tarah McLaughlin: I decided to do a “Dress Down” at the school where I teach every year on Jack’s birthday, to honor him but also to spread awareness on HI.
Julie Raskin: Wow, that’s something!. On behalf of the entire HI community, we are so grateful and inspired by your generosity. Now how exactly does this work? What is a “Dress Down Day” at school and who participates?
Tarah Mclaughlin: “Dress Down Days“ are when faculty and staff get to wear more casual clothing and the requirement is to pay an amount (can be any) to participate. They occur mostly on Fridays but sometimes there are special exceptions. A faculty or staff member sponsors the money collected for an organization they feel a part it or passionate about, in our case it’s CHI for Jack.
Julie Raskin: This is just such an altruistic way to celebrate Jack’s birthday and very creative! What does Jack think of these activities?
Tarah McLaughlin: Jack is not completely aware of it at his age of 6 but since you have sent this I have been talking more about with him. He will understand more as he gets older.
Julie Raskin; Will you share a little more about Jack with us?
Tarah McLaughlin: Jack loves being outside, playing with friends and neighbors, loves dinosaurs, trains, and food and his favorite color is blue!
Julie Raskin: Please feel free to share anything else:
Tarah McLaughlin: Living with HI has been scary and difficult at times, but we are so lucky to have the best support through Philly’s CHOP endocrine team. Jack has come a long way and we are so proud. Thank you for asking us about our life with HI!
