Children’s of Alabama Patient Goes to Washington to Advocate for Children’s Healthcare

Birmingham, Ala. (June 9, 2026) — Children’s of Alabama patient Timothy Walley spent some time in the nation’s capital this month. Walley traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with members of Congress and shared his story as part of the Children’s Hospital Association's 21st annual Family Advocacy Day.

“This year, Timmy, who was born with a rare genetic kidney condition, represented Children’s of Alabama,” said Brian Massey, Vice President of Government Relations at Children’s of Alabama. “Timmy put a face to the issues that we advocate for every day.”

Timmy spent some time with Representatives Dale Strong, Robert Aderholt, Gary Palmer and Senator Katie Britt. He also met with the staff of Representative Barry Moore and Senator Tommy Tuberville. During his visits with the lawmakers, Timmy told them about the exceptional care that he and his family have received at Children’s of Alabama. He bragged about the staff who have taken care of him during his hospital stays and those he meets at his doctor's visits. He also pointed out that the staff of Children’s of Alabama Child Life and Education have been so supportive and have helped make his visits as easy as possible.

“Family Advocacy Day is all about patients and their families pushing for policies that put them first,” said Dr. Paul R. Haut, President of the Children’s Hospital Association. “Children’s health and well-being should be at the center of every policy discussion happening in Washington, because when we prioritize healthy kids, we build a healthy future for us all.  We’re proud of advocates like Timmy, who represent the strength and resilience of families across the country and who remind leaders in Washington that matters to families and communities.”

Family Advocacy Day brings together patients and parents from more than 50 children’s hospitals across the nation, urging lawmakers to protect children’s care, support the doctors and nurses who serve them and uphold the American value that every child deserves a healthy future.

To read more about Timothy’s story, click here.