This issue is very appropriately dedicated to Advocacy.
There's so much going on right now. Parkinson’s Research is at major
crossroads with many new scientific opportunities that will not only help find
a cure for Parkinson’s disease but also for other diseases.
It is very important for us to be informed as to what is
going on and how it may affect us so that we can make personal choices as to
our own involvement. It is Imperative that we educate the members of Congress
about Parkinson’s disease and let them know that we have a voice and we are
willing to use it. Because that is what advocacy is all about, supporting a
personal cause or a viewpoint.
Each of us can be an effective advocate in our own way.
Writing a letter, making a phone call, signing a petition that represents our
convictions, may do it. PAN is holding their 8th annual 3-day
public policy forum beginning on May 19th. We urge as many of you
to attend as possible. Some financial assistance is available. The PAN
organization is skilled in the art of advocacy training. Let them show you how
to make your voices heard! Also come and support Michael J Fox on May 22nd
as he testifies before the Senate Subcommittee Hearing. He will be telling our
stories. For more information on either of these issues, go to
www.plwp.org .
Our next announcement fits right in. Greg Wasson is a
very dedicated individual who has always kept his ear to the ground, keeping
current with the issues and knowing what is happening on Capitol Hill. We are
very pleased that Greg Wasson has committed to keeping all of us informed as
our Director of Advocacy. He will keep us abreast of events and information
in the world of advocacy news.
We are also very excited to announce that Beth Bennett
has accepted the challenge of being our secretary for PLWP. Just to name a few
of her duties, Beth will be setting up individual team meetings, team leaders
meetings, consolidated status reports and issuing them to our members etc.
Beth will also be sharing her skills as an accomplished photographer. You can
get to know both of them a little better by reading their biographies included
in this issue.
We are pleased as to the accomplishments of PLWP up to
now and we know that there is much more to come. This is only the beginning.
On the front page of the website there is a “Suggestion Box” on the menu, we
are interested in your suggestions and comments. Please use it and let us
hear from you. Thank you all for all you do, joining us in making a
difference!
Love and Hope
Nan and Bren
