| You’re the Cure on the Hill Advocates Urge Congress to Increase Medical Research Funding and Support Measures To Fight Childhood Obesity The need for innovative research and initiatives to increase physical activity was the resounding message to Congress from more than 300 volunteer-advocates from across the country who gathered in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 2011 for the American Heart Association’s Congressional Lobby Day – You’re the Cure on the Hill. Heart and stroke survivors, researchers and youth advocates met with key lawmakers to urge them to appropriate $35 billion for the National Institutes of Health for FY 2012, co-sponsor the Fitness Integrated with Teaching (FIT) Kids Act and support the Safe Routes to Schools program in the next transportation bill. More… Advocates of the Year Honored at Heroes Luncheon With so many outstanding advocates brought together in one place for You’re the Cure on the Hill 2011, the American Heart Association (AHA) couldn’t pass up the opportunity to recognize their dedication and achievements at the Heroes Luncheon on April 11. The Advocate of the Year awards were presented during the luncheon by AHA Chair Debra Lockwood and CEO Nancy Brown to four advocates who demonstrated their commitment to advancing the mission of the association through advocacy work on the local, state and federal levels. This year’s honorees were Dr. Stephen Cook (NY), Cindy Flynn (PA), Newt Williams (TN), and Abby Michaelsen (CA). More… Youth Advocates Lobby for their Health At our annual You’re the Cure on the Hill event, approximately 20 middle school and high school students gathered to learn more about advocacy and the impact they can have on heart and stroke policy. Whether they were congenital heart defect survivors or had watched a loved one battle heart disease or stroke, they all came with a passion for eliminating cardiovascular disease and a compelling personal story to share with lawmakers. More...   |
 As chair of the association’s Advocacy Coordinating Committee, Dr. Barry Franklin expresses his gratitude to You're the Cure advocates and staff for their hard work at this year’s event.  EXERCISE YOUR VOICE for FIT Kids SPEAK UP for Safe Routes to Schools TELL CONGRESS Research Saves Lives Rosie Vetter, Cary, NC
Juan Ramon Rios, JD, Bronx, NYDr. Stephanie Moore, Concord, MAYolanda Dickerson, Zebulon, NCDr. Charles Pozner, Newton, MA
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"This was my first year at Lobby Day. It was great to have the opportunity to meet legislators and new, interesting people. Having a tour of the Capitol was an experience I will take with me always."
"I was deeply impressed by the courageous stories and resolve of the survivors, healthcare providers and advocates who championed on behalf of the American Heart Association for Congressional support in preventing heart diseases and stroke. Their remarkable leadership and friendship encourages me to continue to appreciate the vital work we are doing for a healthier community in the South Bronx."
"Every day the devastation of heart disease is on display in my office. While meeting with my members of Congress I have the chance to share stories and make the faces of heart disease real - and I know that results in real policy change."
"As a survivor and an Emergency Physician I understand the issues, but frequently, members of Congress need help gaining perspective. Lobby Day provides volunteers a real opportunity to promote the goals of the AHA while helping members of congress gain the perspective they need to do the right thing for their constituents."
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