Congressional support for increased MS research grows

At the end of June, ten MS Activists met with Congressman Derek Kilmer to ask him for increased funding for MS research. They shared their personal stories, and by doing so, recruited a new ally to the MS movement. Read on to see what Rep. Kilmer had to say about the visit in his e-newsletter to his constituents:

"This week I met with the Greater Northwest Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society on Bainbridge Island. In the meeting I heard from a group of people living with MS all of whom had unique stories ranging from a teenage girl who faces occasional paralysis to a senior citizen who faces considerable challenges on a daily basis.

I joined the Congressional Multiple Sclerosis Caucus because the federal government has an important role to play to tackle challenges related to MS. First, Congress should continue to fund MS research to prevent the occurrence, slow progression, and lessen the symptoms of the disease. 

Second, Congress should continue working to ensure access to appropriate treatment, alternative therapies, and pain relief for those with MS so that they can live more comfortable and productive lives.

Additionally, Congress must support funding for the Lifespan Respite Care Program to ensure family caregivers have the support they need. And finally, Congress needs to continue to give these issues the attention they deserve. That’s why the advocacy of groups like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is so important."

The meeting is a great example of MS Activists reaching out to a politician and asking for help to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis. Rep. Kilmer was elected to Congress this year to represent Bainbridge, NW Tacoma and the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas. It's pretty impressive that he came out so strongly in favor of our issues. Thank you to the MS Activists who made that possible! 

Tips on how to be an effective citizen lobbyist - from the staff of Congressman Adam Smith

Meeting with politicians and their staff is one of the best parts of my job. I'm always amazed at how easy it is to talk with our elected officials and it makes me proud to have such an open and democratic government in our country.

A big part of the job description of a politician is to meet with constituents - it's how they learn about important issues and stay accountable to voters. A politician can't be everywhere at once though and so they rely on their staff to help out with their tasks. Last week, along with MS Activists Simone Thompson and Karl Schiller, I had the opportunity to meet with his very helpful deputy district director of Congressman Adam Smith, Debra Enteman.

Karl and Simone were great in sharing their stories with Debra, and she was very helpful in giving us some tips on how to be effective citizen lobbyists. I think they are worth repeating:
1) Stay informed - learn about the issues and know what you want your elected officials to do about them.
2) Tell your story effectively - the best activists don't just have an opinion on an issue, they have a personal connection to the issue that makes it compelling.
3) Remind the elected official that you are a constituent - include your address in all your correspondence as politicians care most about voters in their district.

Congressman Adam Smith is a longtime supporter of the MS community so we didn't have to do any hard selling during the meeting. He's a member of the Congressional MS Caucus and a fervent supporter of increased funding for medical research. Still - it was a great chance to be a part of our democracy.

Karl Schiller, MS Activist and Jim Freeburg, advocacy director

The MS movement is stronger than ever.....A guest post from MS Activist, Simone Thompson

My life struggle with MS is painful and complicated. Knowing there are others suffering from MS is heart-breaking. MS does not discriminate. It is unrelenting.

Through pain, loss, confusion, fear and anger I finally realized the MS war is far larger than myself. I feel compelled to speak for those unable to speak for themselves. So many impacted by this life-altering disease rely on public officials to give voice and resources to aid in their battle.

I am ill, but I still have a voice!

Today, I fight for my brothers and sisters living with MS. I lend my voice to the battle for their success and cure - not just my own. Together we can win!

Directing my small voice to my local Washington State 9th Congressional District Representative, Adam Smith, I was delighted and enlightened to learn of his extensive involvement in the MS fight. Congressman Smith directly advised that he supportive of not only NIH Funding, but Representative Smith is also a member of the Congressional Multiple Sclerosis Caucus, which creates a political platform for discussing important issues for those facing MS. This caucus has two main goals: (1) Find solutions for people living with MS and (2) promote awareness and education about MS.

Congressman Smith is committed to finding solutions and cures for MS! His dedication and advocacy are truly appreciated.

I strongly suggest reaching out to your local and federal officials. Making your vote count is a priviledge and can lead to great results! Writing letters, attending caucuses and phone calls can go a very long way.