by Andrew Fullerton, Government Relations Manager

What is so special about August that you should take time away from binge watching “Game of Thrones?” 

During August, your Senators and Representatives will be coming home from Washington, D.C. for the month to meet with constituents and attend events in the state or district.  This means you have a chance to meet with them, tell them about your kidney story, and how they can support chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

Why is this important?

We want you to meet with your legislators – or their staff – at their office and various events around your hometown.  Sign-up for their mailing list and attend their next town hall meeting with other advocates.  Visit them at the state fair or other widely attended events.  Do you also see your state legislators at the event? Say hello to them and educate them as well.  Learn more about these activities.

What else can I do to support CKD policy priorities?

There are a couple fun activities to build support for CKD patients from home and spread the word at the same time!  Consider making your presence known through social media!  Tweet your legislators or post on their Facebook site.  Take a video of yourself on your phone telling how important this is to you.  Take a picture of yourself holding a sign with a note about your CKD experience.  Also, share it with all of your connections using the hashtag #mykidneysmylife.  Interested?  Read this guide on how to engage lawmakers on social media.

Need more guidance?

Do you want to take action but need more guidance?  Contact Andrew Fullerton (andrew.fullerton@kidney.org) for assistance.  We are here to help you in your fight to advance CKD policy priorities.  Read our guides and policy fact sheets to help you make your case to your legislators.

Thank you for taking the time this August to reach out to your legislators and remember to also sign up to become an NKF advocate.