It was another banner year for You're the Cure advocates who came together in Washington, D.C. advocating for increased funding for heart disease and stroke research and prevention efforts as well as asking for meaningful healthcare reform. Approximately 450 advocates representing all 50 states were able to meet with lawmakers and share their stories as survivors, caregivers, professionals, and researchers. In fact, advocates took part in 354 meetings on the Hill and they dropped of materials to additional offices too.By now you have made the trip home and have recouped after your hard work. Results are just starting to come in: so far Congress has received more than 10,200 messages from You're the Cure advocates about this year's top issues. Members are adding their support to the funding letter to the President and signing on as co-sponsors of bills addressing heart and stroke issues. Watch for updates on your efforts in the e-newsletter and from your local advocacy staff.
Let's keep the pressure up and secure even more heart and stroke champions on Capitol Hill. Don't forget to contact the offices you met with and ask for their support. Spread the word and ask friends and family to visit http://www.yourethecure.org/ to take action. And work with your AHA/ASA staff partners to share your experience with the media. There has already been some great coverage across the country, and the media is a great way to keep our issues in the spotlight.
Congratulations and thank you for all you do as a You're the Cure advocate. As you take some time to reflect on your experience in the nation's Capitol- the meetings you had, the new friends you made, and the training you received- don't forget to share your thoughts on the blog. We'd love to hear about your personal experience. Leave a comment below or email your own post for this blog directly to yourethecure.americanheart@blogspot.com.
1 comment:
This was my first year at Lobby Day and it really was an incredible experience. Our volunteers are simply amazing. And some are just kids! I was blown away by 11 year old Michelle Ballasoites, Youth Advocate of the Year (deservedly so). Everything ran so smoothly, like I hear it does every year. Thanks so much to everyone at National who made this such a great experience. Thanks for letting me be a part of it!
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