Have you ever been to a summit in Washington D.C.? Do you consider yourself an advocate? If so, what is your cause?
Summits are a great opportunity for people to rally together and let their voices be heard in our nation's capitol. Times and appointments are set aside for everyday people to meet with members of Congress to talk about health issues and concerns relating to a serious illness. You can share personal stories about living with a disease and how it impacts your family. The face-to-face meetings CAN make a difference.
The only summit I'm familiar with is the Advocacy and Kid's Summit for arthritis. A few years ago, I knew a high school freshman who went to this summit in D.C. She made an agreement with her teachers to give a presentation upon her return in exchange for an excused absence. I had the privilege of introducing this young lady and I was moved by her speech.
Her mother had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 18. This teen spoke to Congress on behalf of her mother and shared personal stories about her mother's daily limitations, the treatments and the pain associated with her disease. It was quite a testimony! She also shared the experience of the meetings, the fast pace of moving from one appointment to the next, the adrenaline of rushing around Capitol Hill and the satisfaction of knowing that her voice was heard.
I testified to the Supreme Court on behalf of people living with arthritis in hopes of raising awareness about the seriousness of the disease. My intention was to put a younger face on an illness which is often considered to be a normal condition of aging. I wanted the representatives of my state to know that young people get arthritis, too.
In order to change government policies and raise awareness, we the people, must get involved! I would love to hear your stories about supporting a cause (regardless of the subject), writing letters to Congress and/or suggestions about how someone would get started.
Please share your ideas and experiences. Do you feel it was worth the effort? Was your voice heard?
Visit ust a www.arthritisintrospective.org
anytime.
SJ
Phoenix, AZ
I'm working in my community (Silicon Valley) to broaden the understanding on this disease. Letters to the newspaper, talking to people, and trying to get the word out. Yes, on other causes, I have spoken publically and testified in the legislature. We'll see what the future holds.
Lynne
P.S. You have such a perty smile to go with your perty hair! :]
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