HoG Bleeding Disorder Advocacy Program Update

The HoG Bleeding Disorder Advocacy (BDA) program kicked off 2018 by having a one-day training and strategy session for the new and veteran advocates. The BDA program now has 17 advocates representing 10 of the 18 public health districts in Georgia. During the training, the new advocates learned about the principles of advocacy, lobbying at the state and federal level, and tips on public speaking and “how to tell my story.”

The strategy session brought forth great collaboration among the new and veteran advocates on innovative ways to connect this year and effectively engage with legislators and the bleeding disorder community. The advocates already have a busy spring planned with advocacy efforts.

•    They plan to meet with local legislators to discuss access to quality care issues on March 6 at the Hemophilia of Georgia Day at the Capitol.
•    The group will attend the National Hemophilia Foundation’s annual advocacy event, Washington Days, in March.
•    They will participate in several Capitol Hill visits with members of the Georgia congressional delegation.
•    In addition, the advocates will attend client events around the state to spread awareness and network with members of the bleeding disorder community.

HoG is still recruiting participants for the program, particularly in North and South Georgia. It is open to people in Georgia with bleeding disorders, their family members, and friends.  Be a strong voice for the bleeding disorder community.  Contact Nichelle Sims at npsims@hog.org or 770-518-8272 for more information.