I have been reflecting on my first year of the JELF (John E. Lewy Foundation) Advocacy Scholars Program and how it has afforded me with such incredible opportunities and relationships with advocates for children’s health. In April, the first-year JELF Scholars attended the 2026 AAP Advocacy Conference in Washington, DC, and Arlington, VA. We attended hands-on skill sessions for how to advocate for a variety of children’s health issues, with a special focus on vaccine policy. We also learned about immigration policy, advocacy at both the local and national levels, and how to effectively communicate with lawmakers and stakeholders. On the last day of the meeting, we set out for Capitol Hill to meet with representatives from our own geographic regions to endorse the Strengthening Vaccines for Children Act. This legislation aims to expand the Vaccines for Children Act eligibility, and protect providers’ time by allowing them to be reimbursed for time providing vaccine counseling and education. The bill has been introduced and is undergoing the formal legislative process. During a time when vaccine-preventable illnesses are becoming more common and leading to increased mortality, I am honored and proud to be able to advocate for children at this level.
Author: Louise Sawaya, MD
Posted: October 5, 2026