Neutropenia is very rare which can make it difficult for children and families to find appropriate medical care and peer support.
Our children have the opportunity to turn their neutropenia journey into something positive by becoming involved in community outreach, education, and fundraising. We hope that they will learn to advocate for themselves and others, define the role neutropenia will play in their lives, and gain a sense of pride in making a difference.
Who is eligible?
High School age or younger children with Neutropenia who have submitted the application and have indicated how they have or plan to advocate, raise awareness and/or funds on behalf of the Neutropenia community, are eligible to be a Junior Ambassador.
How do I get involved?
The Junior Ambassador program is a one year term (September 1-August 31 of the following year). These terms are renewable with continued qualifying activities and re-submission/application. There are no limit to the number of Junior Ambassadors per any given term, however, Junior Ambassadors will only be added at the beginning of each new term. Applications will open for the next term on July 1, 2025 and the deadline is August 31, 2025.
Current Junior Ambassadors
Thank you to all of our Junior Ambassador’s for being awesome role models for other neutropenia kids in our community!!
Testimonials
Meet Liam Lakhia. Liam was diagnosed with Severe Congenital Neutropenia at one month and is thankful for the care he has received at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. However, he knows that there are other children who are not as fortunate as he was to be quickly diagnosed and receive good care throughout his life. Because of this, he became a Junior Ambassador for NNN and shared the following:
“What started as a simple desire to help others like me, grew into something much bigger.
As I began being involved with the NNN, I became a Junior Ambassador which allowed me the opportunity to connect with other patients, families, and professionals in the health community. As a part of this program, I have been able to find my voice by participating in national conferences and speaking to professionals through healthcare webinars. My favorite part of being an ambassador has been the opportunity to make relationships with other kids who have neutropenia. Being able to share stories and understand one another on a deeper level is truly my motivation for being an ambassador for the neutropenia community, as I believe this type of involvement can influence change and make a difference. Although I have outgrown the Junior Ambassador program, I continue to advocate and fundraise for neutropenia peer programs and neutropenia research. Being a part of this neutropenia community has been super meaningful to my life, as it has given me a chance to be part of something bigger… a chance to use my situation to help other people. I hope that the NNN can focus in on this principle and expand to all corners of the globe so that all affected by neutropenia may have the resources and support needed to overcome their battles.”
