SSF Members Rally Support for NIH Autoimmune Research Plan...

The Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation (SSF) and National Coalition of Autoimmune Patient Groups are launching 2004 efforts to raise awareness and increase support for the NIH Autoimmune Diseases Research Plan. The research plan was released in 2003 after years of dedicated work on the part of SSF and the NIH Autoimmune Diseases Coordinating Committee.

What's on the horizon for 2004?

• A Resolution!
  . . . is ready to be introduced in Congress, which highlights the need to fund the research plan. SSF is currently seeking co-sponsors and building congressional support. Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA) is taking the lead to sponsor the Resolution.
• A Congressional Briefing!
  . . . will be held in late March to draw attention to patients who struggle daily with Sjögren's syndrome and related autoimmune disorders. Congressional members and staffers will be invited to attend the program, learn more about the research plan and why their support is important to making progress, and hear directly from patients.
• Appropriations language!
  . . . to request studies on the financial burden of autoimmune disease.




YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

E-mail or write your congressional members.

• Ask your legislators to co-sponsor the Resolution and Congressional Briefing on the NIH Autoimmune Diseases Research Plan!
• Let them know you want their support for funding for the NIH Autoimmune Diseases Research Plan, so researchers can make progress in developing new treatments for Sjögren’s syndrome and related autoimmune diseases and learning more about potential causes of these devastating disorders.
• Tell them about Sjögren’s syndrome and how it affects your life.
• Request that your legislators contact the SSF or Rep. Lynch for details and to communicate their support.
• Click here to view a sample letter which you can provide to your congressional members for their use.

Find your legislators’ e-mail or local office addresses by clicking here: http://www.sjogrens.org/advocacy/representative.html

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