Yesterday I had an experience most of us should be having more often : a conversation with members of my Congressional delegation about an issue of concern to me. I was an advocate for @ocrahope to raise #ovariancancerawareness among legislators.
We all have complaints about how our country is going in a given moment but governance should be a partnership between citizens and their representatives. How many of us keep our side of the bargain by communicating our concerns–except through the ballot box? I talked to representatives and senators for four hours about our community’s desire for research funds, expanded access to cutting edge treatments, for diversity of patients in clinical trials, and for coverage of genetic testing for cancer and other diseases through Medicare for our most vulnerable citizens. We were listened to, questioned, and hopefully made an impact that will change lives–for the better.
For me it was also a moment of real connection with other women who have faced the challenges of #ovariancancer as patients, care givers, and researchers. I learned so much from the grace and strength of @am_ramz, @jps811, Debi, and all my other #tealsisters who welcomed me so warmly into this exclusive club no one wants to join. It was a powerful way to celebrate #internationalwomensday. Thank you to @repbrownley, @repjudychu, @sarajacobsca, @alexpadilla4ca, Sen Dianne Feinstein, @marktakano41ca and @repmikelevin and their staffers for hearing our stories and working so tirelessly for your constituents. #TealAction
