D-People

The Jonas Brothers Raise Awareness for Diabetes

The Jonas Brothers are hard to miss. This pop trio made up of brothers, Kevin, 20, Joe,19 and Nick Jonas, 15 have been all over TV, magazine covers and on radio. But kids and teens with diabetes may feel an extra special bond with Nick Jonas. Two years ago, Nick was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. 

Ever since he publicly announced his diagnosis, Nick and his brothers have been passionate about sharing Nick’s personal story about diabetes.  “A little bit longer,” the title track of the band’s latest CD, is a song Nick composed after being diagnosed with diabetes.

Free Concert Tickets for Kids with Diabetes

Thanks to the Jonas family’s generosity, the American Diabetes Association was able to send more than 200 kids with diabetes, their siblings and friends to experience “A little bit longer” live in concert. This opportunity had a great impact on many of the kids who met Nick, helping them to feel a little less alone with their diabetes. 

“At one point late in the concert Nick was talking about when he was diagnosed with diabetes and how he decided he would not let that hold him back. It was very touching and Amanda and I found ourselves in tears,” said Elizabeth Clarke, of East Rutherford, N.J. mother of 11-year-old Amanda. “It was one of the few times Amanda truly connected with her hurt.”

YOU Decide, YOU Donate

The Jonas Brothers also gave the public an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children with diabetes. 

At each concert, the Jonas Brothers showed a video clip and announced the American Diabetes Association as one of five charities to benefit from their YOU Decide, YOU Donate campaign.  Proceeds from the campaign will support the American Diabetes Association’s Camp program.

“One of my favorite, yet emotional moments was when they showed Nick’s video,” said Leah Sempert of Phoenix, AZ.  “It meant a lot to see Nick’s story because I could so easily see my story in his.”

To learn more about You Decide, You Donate and to support the American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Camps, visit, www.changeforthechildren.org.