By Leah Moran | Territory Grant Manager
At the end of March, the American Diabetes Association brought together diabetes advocates from across the country at the annual Call to Congress to speak to legislators about the critical importance of continued funding for diabetes research and access to affordable medications. Oregon’s own Community Leadership Board member and local chef, Deanna Bascom, represented the diabetes community in Oregon, and met with legislators about living life with diabetes, and what they can do to improve her life and the lives of 435,000 others in Oregon who have diabetes.
In Deanna’s own words – “I have type 1 diabetes and was diagnosed at age 47 and am dependent on insulin to survive. The fact is not everyone has access to good medical coverage and affordable insulin. A solution must be found for insulin affordability. I worry about the day I want to retire: how will I afford to manage my diabetes?”
Advocates like Deanna communicated the importance of continued funding for programs like the National Diabetes Prevention Program and the Special Diabetes Program. They also communicated the dire consequences if those with insulin-dependent diabetes cannot afford their insulin and called on Congress to take immediate action to make insulin affordable.
If you’re interested in becoming a diabetes advocate, visit www.diabetes.org/advocacy.
Links:
By Leah Moran | Development Manager
By Leah Moran | Development Manager
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