When we think of advocacy, we think of politics, controversy, bureaucracy, and scandal. That may leave an unpleasant feeling with many.
Public officials are generalists.
They may be extremely familiar with issues that are of particular interest to them or have a dramatic impact upon their hometown. They are not specialists in every area. And most likely, they are not even aware of how a piece of legislation may affect the life of someone with multiple sclerosis. They may have no idea of what it is like to have MS, or to deal with insurance, health care, accessibility or employment issues that go along with the disease. It is our job to educate them.