While at a conference in Chicago, I was asked to speak about my advocacy.  This event is one of my favorites.  The people who attended were advocates from around the country and from various disease states.  Those who are selected have campaigns in place and use social media in order to help others.  These advocates are volunteering their time.  They are what we call in our community, Psuperheros!  

Patient advocates are compassionate and very knowledgeable about the challenges facing their community.  Let’s face it, Healthcare is a complicated subject.  Thanks to this venue we are able to make sense of it all.  These PA’s are seemingly creative.  They go above and beyond all expectations.  The way I see it is when something steals your dreams and ambitions, I’m fighting it back in any means possible.  Social media has helped me raise awareness for our community.  
Thanks to Janssen Pharmaceutical and their vision to partner with patients, HealthEVoices was born three years ago.  This year 105 advocates participated and we all met at the Swiss Hotel.  All accommodations and travel was paid and sponsored by Janssen.  The Tonic team works diligently all year to set up this wonderful event.  Nothing is left out. 

This year I was asked to participate in a video interview with a friend of mine from the HIV community, Josh Robbins.  @I’mstillJosh has a huge following and also has a talk show.  I felt very comfortable speaking on camera with him. He is very professional.  Being in front of the camera has been a hang up for me.  I’m challenging myself to be more articulate and share vital content.  I’m a work in progress. 

Healthline partnered with HealthEVoices and is responsible for this video.  I hope you enjoy my story.  Thank you for your feedback. 
Here is the clip. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1915928381978274&id=100006833921341