Brandon has been dealing with the life-altering disease since he was a child, but now he is working for Sherrod’s campaign to make sure that other kids like him can afford the health care they need as they grow up. Check out his story and learn how Sherrod is fighting to make sure health care isn’t just a privilege for the wealthy that can afford it.

“When I was 12 years old, I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease where the body mistakenly destroys the cells that produce insulin.

I was nearly comatose when my parents took me to the hospital for the first time, where I was told my life would never be the same. Since then, I have checked my blood sugar tens of thousands of times and given myself thousands of shots.  

Type 1 diabetes is an expensive disease, with costs in the U.S. hitting $14 billion a year. That’s why the Affordable Care Act is so important.

When I was diagnosed, insurance companies could deny me coverage because my disease was considered a pre-existing condition. They could charge me higher rates and set annual limits that would make it nearly impossible for me to afford the supplies I need to live, including insulin.

When I was growing up, I was told I could be anything I wanted — just as long as my job provided good health insurance. But thanks to the Affordable Care Act, I am ensured comprehensive policies no matter what career I choose. 

Today, I’m lucky to have a boss who provides comprehensive health insurance and is a champion for the Affordable Care Act. His name is Sherrod Brown.

Sherrod has been fighting like hell to stop Republicans from repealing access to quality, affordable health care that people like me depend on. He is standing up to drug companies, to stop them from raising the price of prescription medications like insulin, the cost of which has nearly tripled since I was diagnosed. And he is working to protect the five million Ohioans like me with pre-existing conditions.” —Brandon