Big news: The Senate Appropriations Committee is about to make some crucial decisions on the FY 2025 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill. This includes funding that could be a game-changer for ME/CFS, Long Covid, and other infection-associated chronic conditions (IACCIs). Let’s make sure our voices are heard and our needs are met!
Here’s What We’re Fighting For:
- $10 Million for an Office of Infection-Associated Chronic Conditions and Illnesses (IACCIs) at NIH
- Why We Need It: This office will streamline and coordinate research across NIH, making sure that funding is used efficiently and that we get the answers and treatments we desperately need.
- Increased Funding for Long COVID and ME/CFS Research
- Why We Need It: More research means better understanding and treatments for ME/CFS and Long COVID. We share many symptoms and underlying issues – let’s push for the funds to find solutions!
- Enhanced Public Health Surveillance and Provider Education
- Why We Need It: Collecting accurate data and educating healthcare providers will improve diagnosis and treatment for everyone dealing with these conditions. Better data = better care!
Why Your Voice Matters:
- Economic Impact: Long Covid and ME/CFS have forced millions out of work and cost the economy trillions. Your advocacy can help turn this around.
- Health Crisis: Many Long Covid patients now meet the criteria for ME/CFS. This is our moment to push for the recognition and resources we’ve needed for so long.
- Quality of Life: This funding can lead to better treatments, more understanding, and a real improvement in the lives of those affected by these conditions.
How You Can Help:
Contact Your Senators: Tell them to support our funding requests for FY 2025.
Spread the Word: Share this post and let others know why this is so important.
Stay Informed: Follow Solve M.E. for updates and ways to get involved.
Attend the Senate Markup Hearing In-Person:
Full Committee Markup of Energy and Water Development; Defense; Labor, Health, and Human Services; and Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Acts
-
- Date: Thursday, August 1, 2024
- Time: 09:30 AM ET
- Location: Dirksen Senate Office Building 106
- Presiding: Chair Murray
Help spread the word by downloading and sharing this Senate markup hearing informational flyer across your networks.
Print out these graphics to display at the hearing:
I Stand for ME/CFS Research! (Color)
I Stand for ME/CFS Research! (B/W)
If you choose to hold a sign, please keep in mind the following etiquette:
–Standing, shouting, or chanting will likely result in removal from the hearing.
– Large signs (larger than 8.5 x 11) may be confiscated or result in your removal from the hearing.
If you own a Solve M.E. Advocacy Week t-shirt, please wear it to the meeting!
Together, We Can Make a Difference!
Even if you can’t attend, let’s rally together and show our strength. Your voice, your story, and your passion can drive the change we need.
Thank you for being a part of this fight!