2008-12-06

Join ASH Government Affairs Committee Chair Roy Silverstein, MD, as ASH rolls out the red carpet to premiere "Research Saves Lives," a short film about the importance of hematology research during the Society’s annual Grassroots Network Breakfast on Sunday, December 7, from 7:00 to 8:00 a.m., in the InterContinental Grand Ballroom B. Produced in commemoration of the Society’s 50th anniversary, the film highlights the vital work undertaken by hematology researchers, the many successes hematology researchers have had as a result of the federal government’s commitment to biomedical research through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the critical need for the federal government to maintain that commitment. The film will be used in a new viral advocacy campaign to encourage the new Congress and president to increase support for biomedical research.

In addition to the film screening, this year’s breakfast will once again highlight the important role that advocacy plays in the federal funding of biomedical research in the United States. ASH’s advocacy efforts have been successful due in large part to the participation of Grassroots Network members. Entirely composed of volunteers from the ASH membership, the ASH Grassroots Network has seen success in bringing issues important to the future of hematology to the attention of the U.S. Congress and federal agencies. Efforts regarding federal funding for hematologic research, Medicare coverage of clinical trials, physician reimbursement, and embryonic stem cell research have been among the many successful campaigns launched by the Grassroots Network.

The breakfast will also provide a forum to learn more about what to expect from the new president and Congress.

Please join us at the Grassroots Network Breakfast to hear the "inside scoop" from Washington and find out how you can get involved in grassroots efforts. Your participation in advocacy efforts is critical to the future of hematology.

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