The Celiac Disease Foundation, a leading global patient advocacy organization committed to accelerating diagnosis, treatments, and a cure for celiac disease, is pleased to honor U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) with its 2025 Celiac Disease Policy Leadership Award in recognition of his sustained commitment and advocacy on behalf of the celiac disease patient community.
“Senator Blumenthal has established himself as a tireless, vocal champion for the celiac disease community. His faithful advocacy for increased federal investment in research ensures that the voices of patients are heard at the highest levels of government,” said Marilyn G. Geller, Chief Executive Officer of the Celiac Disease Foundation. “We are profoundly grateful for his distinguished, powerful leadership in the U.S. Senate that has been pivotal in advancing our mission of improving the lives of those affected by celiac disease.”
“I am honored to receive the Celiac Disease Policy Leadership Award. Individuals living with Celiac Disease deserve the best support and treatment available, and I have been proud to lead legislative efforts to address their critical, unmet needs—including advocating for transparency in food and medication labeling for allergens. Thank you to the Celiac Disease Foundation for their tireless dedication and admirable leadership. I look forward to continuing my work towards bettering the care and quality of life of celiac disease patients,” said Senator Blumenthal.
Senator Blumenthal, representing the state of Connecticut, has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the celiac disease community through his strong support for federal research funding at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Defense (DoD). Each year, he has led efforts to rally his Senate colleagues, sponsoring annual appropriations requests for critical research investments to improve diagnosis, treatment, and disease management. His leadership in this arena has raised critical national awareness of the urgent need for more resources to cure celiac disease.
Beyond his work on specific policy initiatives, Senator Blumenthal has proven himself a compassionate, accessible ally for the celiac disease patient community. His open-door policy and responsiveness, welcoming patients and families from Connecticut to share their personal stories and struggles, fosters a vital connection between the patient community and federal lawmakers that ensures lived experience actively informs policy decisions.
Celiac disease is one of the world’s most common, chronic genetic autoimmune disorders, affecting more than three million Americans—70-80% of whom remain undiagnosed. Without proper treatment, the condition increases the risk of severe health complications, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic illnesses.
The Celiac Disease Foundation Policy Leadership Award, presented annually, recognizes outstanding commitment in advancing the needs of celiac disease patients, including advocacy for federal celiac disease research funding and support for legislation that will improve the health of all people affected by this life-altering diagnosis. Representative Betty McCollum (MN-04), Chair of the Congressional Celiac Disease Caucus, received the inaugural award in 2024.
