PD Advocacy: Different
Strokes for Different Folks
by Jimmie (Toad) Turner
To me, the broad term of "advocate" in the battle against PD, covers a lot
of ground. The spectrum ranges from those willing to talk in their
community about what PD has done, is doing, and may do to them, thereby
causing "awareness," all the way up to the politicians that find dollars &
make research a reality.
I personally have proclaimed adverse feelings for politics, and those that
fight in that arena. However, the truth is I've hidden behind my "cloak"
of indifference, while trying to hide my ignorance, & laziness. In short,
I've been satisfied to let others fight our battles. It's kind of like not
voting. I've lost the right to complain when I avoided the fight for the
issues at hand. But then, that was easier than learning the issues.
This arena, however, is not for everybody. There is a lot of confusing
banter and the splitting of very fine words. It appears to me that "what
you know" sometimes runs second to "who you know." Being able to
compromise, doesn't hurt either. For some, herein lies the rub. On the
issues, such as various stem cell research, the lines are drawn, and no
quarter is given or taken. For the purpose of this discussion, I'm a
neutral bystander. In reality, I have many opinions driven by emotion,
rather than knowledge. A politician I ain't.
The fund-raising advocates are in a league of their own. Many work
tirelessly, scrambling for dollars that cover research, meds for the
needy, financial assistance, and even such as aiding in buying computers
for the homebound. There are people who are "money magnets" that can ask
(and get) dollars without offending. Let's face it, there's never too much
money gathered for the cause. Some needs are NEVER met.
My next to last category's the "do-all" advocate. They understand the
issues, and know those that can make changes in laws and issues. They
raise money, exude awareness, and are tireless workers. They always have a
kind word of encouragement. They are nothing short of "Saints." Their only
fault is being too few, and never sleeping over two hours a night.
Last, but not least, is the "needed" advocate's advocate - the one that
may or may not have the money, time, knowledge, physical ability, or even
caring, to help. Some can pray in support. Some can email, snail mail,
call, or visit in support of known advocates. I recall a time when a
seemingly tireless, upbeat, and powerful advocate; in an unguarded moment;
took her own life. This is not to blame or judge - I've been close to the
edge myself. But what if a prayer, kind word, or just a good listener,
could've reached her in time? If you return a kind word to a bitter
comment, you are an advocate's advocate. If you extend a "well done" to a
tireless worker, that in reality was emotionally & physically wore down,
you're an advocate's advocate. If you notice and are thankful for the
little things your caregiver does without asking, you're an advocate's
advocate. YOU ARE NEEDED!