Help demonstrate the strength of our community and speak up for policies that will improve the lives of people living with scleroderma.
As the annual budgeting process continues this Fall, the Foundation is hosting Virtual Hill Days to connect our community with their local legislators. This is a valuable opportunity to share your story, raise awareness about the challenges facing people living with scleroderma, and urge lawmakers to support robust funding and other policies that will help our community.
“Legislators want to hear from their constituents,” Ashley Pruett, vice president of community engagement with the National Scleroderma Foundation, said. “When people in their district take the time to have a meeting or send a letter, lawmakers and their staffs pay attention.”
Because scleroderma is a rare disease, it is likely that many lawmakers and the staff members who advise them are not aware of the challenges their constituents living with scleroderma face. With Virtual Hill Days, the Foundation staff will arrange the meetings and make sure you have the tools you need for a successful meeting.
“We know that many people are worried that a legislative meeting is something they can’t do,” Pruett said, “but nothing could be further from the truth.”
So, what will you need to do? Share your personal story of your journey with scleroderma and let the legislative team you meet with know which policies can make your life better.
Virtual Hill Days will be held October 15-16. In order to participate in Foundation-facilitated meetings, you will also need to attend a required training session on October 7 to ensure everyone is successful during their meetings.
To register for Virtual Hill Days and the training, please complete the form here: Virtual Hill Days Registration.
Learn more about the Foundations advocacy work and our legislative priorities by visiting our website.
Questions can be directed to advocacy@scleroderma.org.