What does it mean to be an advocate? Advocates are people who speak out about something they believe in on behalf of themselves and/or others. Outreach to Members of Congress informs policymakers about the needs of people affected by digestive health issues and how they can take meaningful action.
Digestive health advocacy through the DHA brings concerned parties together to ensure that we carry clear, impactful messages. Adding your voice to this growing chorus helps expand critical research, initiate important legislation, and facilitate the development of new treatment options. It can be as simple as sending an email or making a call to a legislative office. Here are the experiences of people living with the challenges imposed by functional GI disorders. Through DHA they have put their hopes for change into action.
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Pseudo-obstruction
May 4, 2012
In November of 2011, after a “reality check” visit with Dr. DiLorenzo, at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, I realized my best opportunity for Grant to live a long and happy future lies in our HOPE for advancement in research and available medications. It was at this... |
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Gastroparesis
August 25, 2011
Over the past few months, with the help of the staff from the IFFGD/DHA, I’ve written letters to my Congressman and Senators regarding issues that affect those with gastroparesis. The IFFGD staff suggested it might be good to follow up on my letters with a personal visit. At first,... |
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Lower GI Disorders
June 14, 2011
My name is Reneé. I am married to my wonderful husband Mike of 22 years, and am a mom of a 15-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son. We live in the Florida panhandle and I work as a CPA in a small firm. My GI problems started about 3 years ago. I started thinking that maybe I... |
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Gastroparesis
June 14, 2011
Crystal prepares to visit the office of her Senator, Charles Schumer (D-NY) during the DHA Advocacy Day. To read about Crystal's experience, vist her blog at http://livingwithgastroparesis.com. |
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Gastroparesis
March 10, 2011
DHA Advocate Tanjie Kling sat down to speak with fellow advocate, Mollee Sullivan, about her experience at the 2011 DHA Advocacy Day. Below is an excerpt from their interview. Tanjie, 43, is an urban planner for the city of Huntsville, Alabama. For more... |
Want to become an advocate? Learn how here.