(On behalf of Ivy Radcliffe, MN, APRN, BC-ADM, CDE)
Why be an advocate for diabetes? Can one person really make a difference? In today's world, there are many notable problems that seem impossible to solve. But, I do believe one person can make a difference when they devote the time and energy to DO SOMETHING!
“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do.”
~ Helen Keller
Diabetes can be so overwhelming! Incidence is at epidemic proportions, and it seems like no one is listening. Insurance for patients is decreasing and the financial burden is increasing. You don’t have to give up! You can do something for your patients and even their family members.
Major organizations have strong advocacy groups and activities. Information, petitions, legislative days, and training advocates are always going on! Consider joining an organization for legislative announcements and don’t groan when you see the emails. Most times it’s a simple announcement requesting signature support. Consider being a diabetes advocate! Pick an issue and work with others to promote the urgency and mobilize action for what you believe.
You can start with the AADE Advocacy Forum: https://bit.ly/1PmoMDN.
This site provides federal and state legislative information related to diabetes education and issues. There is a simple link to stay informed or to sign-up to be an advocate. Legislative bills are summarized and linked for easy support. There is also a search feature for you to find your own legislative representatives by zip code. Links are included for telephone numbers and web sites. Be brave, go ahead! Call Martha and Krystan, our two new senators and give them a few words about your diabetes concerns.
Here are a few more ways that you can be an advocate:
- ADA is managing the “Stand Up for Affordable Insulin” campaign. All diabetes educators have experienced the unaffordable prices of insulin that our patients have to deal with. You can do something about this. Just sign the petition! Every signature counts.
- JDRF also has a campaign to lower the cost of insulin.
Sign BOTH petitions. Millions of signatures are sure to be noticed!
Or... mark your calendar & attend ADA’s 2019 Diabetes Day at the Capitol on Thursday, February 14th. You can’t use weather for an excuse in Arizona! This annual event puts diabetes in front of legislators and Arizonians. Decision makers need to see your faces and hear your stories. We are the health providers that know the most about the individual’s experience with diabetes. Imagine how strong we would be standing together on the lawn of the Arizona capitol. I will be there and hope to see you too! To register, click here: ADA’s 2019 Diabetes Day at the Capitol.
One person can make a difference. If you took the time to read this blog, then I challenge you to take the time to do one or two of these activities. Diabetes educators are smart, caring, and strong. Let’s get together and DO SOMETHING to better the lives of those living with diabetes in Arizona!