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Once last November there was a posting on this list announcing the great news that the various Parkinson's organizations had agreed to work more closely together to pass the Udall Bill. As it turns out that was somewhat premature, but perhaps some seeds were planted then which are now beginning to grow. Robin Elliot, Executive Director of PDF, Larry Hoffheimer, Washington Consul for NPF, Joan Samuelson, President of PAN and Paul Smedberg, from APDA's Washington office along with several seasoned advocates(Carol Walton, Bob Martone, Ken Aidekman and myself), have had two conference call meetings and one in person meeting. We have not rushed to publicize these efforts so as to not be premature. Last Tuesday we had the most constructive meeting I have witnessed in my time as an advocate. More details will be forthcoming but I think there is real promise here and wanted to convey this too all you who hunger for information. We need to keep concentrating on the goal (finding a cure), emphasizing the positive, minimizing the areas of difference and I think this just might work. I have felt that even without a cooperative effort there was reason to believe that we could pass the Udall Bill this year, but that if we could harness the collective strength of the Parkinson's community the chances improved dramatically. Everyone can help by doing what they can whether it be: 1) writing or calling (Rep Bliley's office reports they get more calls and letters on this issue than any other. To me that is a Green light to up the pace). I recently gave a talk on advocacy where I said call a Rep or Senator every day, week, or month depending on how much Parkinson's bothers you. If it is only a minor inconvence, once a month, but if its a progressive degenerative incapacitating disease, once a day seems more appropriate to me. 2) going to Washington July 13-15 for the Forum or aiding someone else to go WE are coming together for the big legislative push, but we need your help Jim Cordy Pittsburgh [log in to unmask]