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| Amanda Watson delivers her speech to over 350 people |
ALS Advocacy Day and Public Policy Conference - 2006
WASHINGTON, DC (May 17, 2006) -- Advocates from across the country gathered in Washington, DC from May 15-17 for The ALS Association’s Annual ALS Advocacy Day and Public Policy Conference. Twenty six Catfish Chapter representatives including 4 PALS met with fifteen NC legislators to discuss our National ALS priorities for 2006.
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| From left to right: Amanda Watson, Taylor John and Kate Linder |
One of the most memorable events was the candlelight vigil held Monday evening on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Featured during the ceremony were the inspiring words of Raleigh native Amanda Watson. Amanda attends UNC Chapel Hill and is the reigning 2006 Miss National Sweetheart. Having lost both her grandfather and great grandfather to this disease, she chose to make her platform ALS. The ceremony also featured the powerful and beautiful voice of Taylor John. Taylor is a professional singer and has been involved with our Chapter for several years. His father,
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| PALS Scott Sheridan with son Adam at the ALS candlelight vigil. |
baseball legend Tommy John and his mother, Sally were also in attendance. The John’s live in Charlotte, NC and continue to support our cause on both a local and national level. The pair (Taylor and Amanda) partnered to sing an inspiring rendition of "The Prayer". Celebrities Kate Linder from "The Young and the Restless" and former Minnesota Twins baseball player Kent Hrbek also spoke at the vigil.
Tuesday was filled with workshops to help train and inform advocates. Topics included research updates, advocacy 101, and Medicare prescription drug coverage. Tuesday evening featured a reception to recognize advocacy achievements and to present awards to advocates and legislators.
On Wednesday, advocates shared inspiring stories of personal courage and collectively made their presence felt throughout the halls of Congress. The meetings went very well and we have every reason to believe that our elected leaders will follow through with their commitment to our cause.
