Crohn's & Colitis Foundation Advocacy

Crohn's Disease - Take Steps - By My Numbers

2010-03-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

In just under 2 months, I'll travel to Nashville to take part in this year's Take Steps for Crohn's & Colitis fund raising event.

For the past two years, I've raised funds and money close to home in West Tennessee. This year, as Advocacy Chair for the Tennessee Chapter of the CCFA, I thought I would volunteer, meet and walk with IBD patients from all over the state.

In trying to come up with creative ways to raise money for my team, The Rolling Crohn's, I thought I would keep it simple.

I remember one of my high school teachers reading the "By The Numbers" section out of Harper's Bazaar magazine to us from time to time. I thought I would take that approach in trying to relate what this disease and subsequent cure means to me.

48 staples in my abdomen after my colon resection. (September 2000)
10 years since my diagnosis of Crohn's disease. (February 2000)
6 Remicade treatments I receive each year.
5 hospital stays since being diagnosed with Crohn's disease.
4 colonoscopies I have had in my life.
3 Crohn's-related kidney stones I've passed or had broken up.
2 tubes inserted down my nose into my stomach.
1/4 of my colon removed during my resection.
1 son who I never want to see go through all the terrible things I've been through since being diagnosed with Crohn's disease.

Help me raise awareness and funds for Crohn's and colitis so that other, especially young ones, don't have to experience the pain and frustration of these terrible conditions.

Please help me raise money for my "Take Steps" team by donating to The Rolling Crohn's here.

We'd love to have you join us Saturday, May 22nd in Nashville, Tennessee.

Take Steps and Be Heard!

Thank you so much.

Cheers,

Brent

A Day In The Life: Remicade Infusion

2009-12-14T11:54:00.001-08:00

I haven't posted a blog in a while because, quite frankly, I've been dragging. I'm not sure if my 8 week Remicade infusions are lasting the whole time or if it's something else.

I did go in to receive my latest infusion at the hospital last Monday (December 7th) morning and tried to document it through Facebook and Twitter.

Here is just a simple recap of my notes from the day of my infusion to help folks understand some of what IBD patients go through in order to be "normal" (can we really even define that?).

Up at 5am, an hour drive to the hospital, arrive at 6:40am and in Remicade infusion room at 7am.
IV in...waiting on pharmacy to send up Remicade - 7:15am
Remicade has started...10 cc's to begin with...then slowly increased over the next 2 - 2 1/2 hours - 7:51am
Now up to 40 cc's of Remicade. A little tired, but otherwise doing well - 8:24am
Vitals taken...all well. Dosage up to 80 cc's...on my way to 455 mg - 8:44am
Fingers & toes are cold, but that's common. My temperature was 95.7 this morning...proof that I stay cold. About 1 hour left of medicine, then another half hour to flush the line - 9:23am
We've reached our cruising altitude: 250 cc's of Remicade until the medicine is finished - 9:30am
Remicade is finished, have to do a 30 minute IV flush and then off to work - 10:16am
Remicade treatment finished and back at work - 11:05am

That was last Monday morning and, after a week, I seem to be doing better. I still get tired at certain points in the day, but I feel the medicine has definitely given me more pep in my step.

I have a chronic illness and take medicine that lowers my immune system, so each day can always bring something unexpected.

I continue to take my multivitamin, get my monthly B-12 shot, take an additional daily B-12 pill and drink a minimum of 40oz of water each day.

Since I feel like my Remicade infusions aren't lasting the full 8 weeks, I've decided to talk with my gastroenterologist about what other options I have. I called for an appointment on November 30th and can't get in to see him until January 18th...thus is the life of an IBD patient.

I do hope readers now understand the process of what it's like to go through Remicade infusions. This is something I've been doing every 8 weeks since May 2005.

Until there is a cure, it appears I'll continue this treatment to help keep my Crohn's under control.

I wish good health to all.

Cheers,

Brent

The Reality of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

2009-11-30T10:22:00.000-08:00

For the past two months, I've been trying to keep everyone up-to-date about the bill currently before Congress that would greatly benefit those of us who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease.

I've also tried to humanize IBD through various anecdotes about my life or general stories about what Crohn's and colitis patients go through on a daily basis.

Through all of my posts, I've kept an upbeat attitude towards everything my condition has thrown my way. I will continue to do that because I don't want to go into a downward spiral of negative thinking...that's counterproductive.

However, some days you do want to throw up your hands and say, "That's it, I give up." That is a reality of IBD that a lot of people don't really understand.

Let me illustrate how frustrating life can be when dealing with a chronic illness.

Over the past few days, I have been experiencing extreme fatigue. This is the type of fatigue where you can't concentrate, your memory is spotty and you have the urge to do, basically, nothing.

Yesterday, I hit a daunting peak. After eating Sunday dinner with family, I returned home to an overall feeling of bleakness. My body and mind were simply exhausted. The only energy I could muster was enough to reluctantly drag myself to bed where I laid down. I didn't sleep because I wasn't sleepy, just tired...and, there is a significant difference.

While in my bed, I could hear my wife begin preparations for decorating the house for Christmas. She had planned on putting up our Christmas tree yesterday afternoon. I heard my son shout with excitement, "A Christmas tree!" and I couldn't pull myself up to partake in a holiday tradition.

That's reality.

Much like the day of Xavier's first football game experience, I lacked the vitality of a healthy individual.

I'm painting a picture of my condition so awareness is created and we can construct wide-spread exposure to IBD.

My next round of Remicade is a week from today and I've already called my doctor to discuss increasing the frequency of my dosage. I'm focusing on eating the right foods that will help my system, drinking water to circumvent dehydration and trying to take things slow in order to combat my fatigue.

Am I down today? Yeah, I don't feel quite well.

Will I continue to stay down? No, I've got to be proactive in order to be in control of this disease.

We all have our days of sickness and, to me, I get frustrated because I feel like I've lost a day to be productive. I have to take advantage of the good days and, on the bad days, realize that my body is reminding me that I need to take care of myself.

This particular blog is a reminder that I will feel good again. I need to understand that...especially on days when my body and mind tell me otherwise.

"Won't let the light escape from me.
Won't let the darkness swallow me."

Truer words have never been written.

Be well.

Cheers,

Brent

Man Can Not Live By Bread Alone...Or, Can He?

2009-11-27T06:32:00.000-08:00

Food can be a number of things to everyone: A source of nutrition, comfort, an energy boost or a luxurious treat at a fancy restaurant.

To me, food is my enemy.

Don't get me wrong, I love eating a nice steak, baked potato and a dinner salad covered in blue cheese dressing. But, I also know the consequences of what I eat.

The aforesaid meal would pretty much put an end to my day. I would most certainly head straight to the bathroom before completion and, ultimately, be ready for bed.

Don't get me wrong, after a big meal most folks get tired.

I write this the day after Thanksgiving when we've all gouged ourselves on turkey and the trimmings. I mean your Uncle Bob is usually asleep in the recliner before the Lions score their only touchdown of the day.

We all experience some sort of drowsiness after a meal. Unfortunately, my fatigue doesn't go away. In fact, it gets worse throughout the day and I hate feeling like my body is shutting down at 2pm.

In order to combat this problem, I've decided to eat smaller meals more frequently. For instance, I'll eat foods that I know won't upset my stomach and will prevent me from visiting the restroom. I've been eating a lot of yogurt, crackers and tons of water. I also take a daily multivitamin and have been pretty consistent with my monthly B-12 shot.

I haven't ordered "sesame chicken" from the local Chinese restaurant near work in months. I only eat pizza if I know I'm in for the night and, even then, I'm pretty sure I'll be up at least once during the late night hours in the bathroom.

My new diet plan has seen me lose 25 pounds over the past 4 months. Thankfully, I seem to be at a stable weight now and my bathroom visits have decreased significantly since forgoing my traditional eating practices.

To be honest, I lived a long time thinking that I could eat whatever I wanted and simply neglect the fact that I have a chronic disease that is affected by the foods I put in my body.

So, if you suggest Mexican for lunch and I decline while drinking my bottle of "Ensure", I'm not trying to snub you...I promise. I am merely putting the right kind of nutrients into my body that will allow me to make it through the day without wanting to go home and go to bed right away or straight to the bathroom.

Ultimately, I want to read books to my son when I get home from work, tell my wife about my day and be able to venture out from time to time to social events (even if I do have to take Imodium before I go).

I've been through so much bodily distress over the past ten years, everything from surgeries and kidney stones to bowel obstructions and abscesses, that I can handle the physical pain. It's the mental shut down that frustrates me the most.

"Inflammatory bowel disease" affects so much more than you gut. IBD can set off a chain reaction of symptoms. In my case, fatigue leads to anxiety over having the energy to be productive. Then, anxiety leads to depression because I can't do the things I want to do. And that depression keeps me from being the proactive, positive person I know that I am.

That's why it's so important for me to stay active...I have to keep my mind sharp.

Everyone is different and I can only tell my story about how IBD affects my life. It is my suspicion that many of you reading this relate to what I go through on a daily basis.

Find what works for you and, hopefully, you'll find yourself in control of this disease! I encourage you to journal your daily health, listen to music, join a support group and, most of all, be cognizant of the foods you eat.

Be well.

Cheers,

Brent

Telling OUR Stories about IBD

2009-11-25T06:25:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, I took the day off of work to focus on meeting with representatives from Congressman John Tanner and Senator Lamar Alexander's offices about the IBD bill.

Now, before I go into the details of our meetings, I want to point out that as "Advocacy Chairperson" I am merely a volunteer. I do not get paid or reimbursed for anything.

I bring this up because I want to emphasize how passionate I am about finding a cure and raising more awareness about "inflammatory bowel disease".

Initially, we were to meet with Jennifer from Senator Bob Corker's office, but she emailed me on Thursday night informing me that she was ill and could not make it to our meeting. To her credit, she arranged for Matt Varino, field director for Senator Alexander, to meet with us in her place. She didn't have to do that, but it was a very considerate and professional courtesy on her behalf.

So, Mandy and I arrived early to our meeting place in Union City, TN on Friday morning, greeted our guests and waited for Matt to arrive. I asked Tammy Smith of Martin to attend our meeting. She has a 17 year old son with Crohn's disease. I also invited Rhonda Hornbeak to join us. She has two children with IBD.

While it was important to bring this bill to the senator's attention, it was equally important to have these women tell their stories of how Crohn's and colitis affect their life and the life of their family.

We met with Matt for over an hour and really tried to humanize this disease. To his credit, Matt sat back, listened, asked questions and genuinely seemed interested in what we were telling him.

I told him that I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't specifically ask for co-sponsorship of the bill. Obviously, he couldn't commit on the senator's behalf, but he did take the materials I supplied and said he would present them to the senator's staff.

From there, Mandy and I drove to Jackson, TN to meet with Brad Thompson, field director for Congressman John Tanner.

This time it was just Mandy and me, so we really tried to personalize my condition and tell my story to Brad.

Brad was very receptive to our description of how IBD has transformed our lives. However, he couldn't definitively tell us that the congressman would co-sponsor the bill.

Again, I presented him with additional materials for Congressman Tanner to look over and he said he would play "Devil's Advocate" for us in order to encourage the congressman to co-sponsor.

As an advocate, you are not only an educator but, essentially, a salesman too. I have to brand the disease and the bill into their minds and have a "call-to-action". (Thanks Don Fitzgibbons!)

I think we're, at the very least, making a small impact. The response we received from both Brad and Matt (representing a democrat and republican, respectively) was encouraging. If nothing else, these staff members went away with new information and were now educated about inflammatory bowel disease...that is never a bad thing!

I will continue to take days off of work, when needed, to meet with staff members or, if I'm lucky enough, congressmen and senators. I will continue to write emails, make phone calls and send in physical letters in support of "The IBD Research and Awareness Act" because I represent the voice for all of those who are unable to stand up. I won't stop until there is a significant awareness campaign in place and proper funding for a cure!

*I have to give special thanks to my wife, Mandy, for attending both meetings with me, taking a day off of work and really making a lot of strong points during our legislative visits.

Keep this grassroots advocacy campaign going! Call, write and email your local congressman and senators! Tell them your story and ask them to co-sponsor this bill.

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving. For those IBD patients that are struggling, keep hope alive and be well.

Cheers,

Brent

Putting The IBD Bill Into Perspective

2009-11-21T08:08:00.000-08:00

Quick! When is "Breast Cancer Awareness Month"?

I'm sure a large majority of you reading this know the answer is October.

The American Cancer Society has developed an effective campaign to educate women on the importance of getting mammograms. I know there is a growing controversy that is currently being debated among doctors, scientists and patients about mammogram screenings. However, that debate aside, early detection has helped save the lives of thousands of women and brought breast cancer awareness to the the forefront of people's minds.

Now, what month is dedicated to "Inflammatory Bowel Disease"...what week...what day?

I think you can see the parallel I'm trying to make here. Early detection through colonoscopies and endoscopies can help patients find an effective treatment program for IBD.

Sadly, the awareness for Crohn's disease and colitis is no where near as wide-spread as cancer, diabetes or Parkinson's disease.

Yet, when you look at the signs and symptoms of IBD, you would have to agree that something needs to be done.

Far too many people (many of whom are children and teens) turn a blind eye to their symptoms because they just don't know what is causing their pain or are embarrassed to talk about it.

By shining a light on IBD, the general public will have a better understanding and that uncomfortable stigma can be taken away.

15 - 20 years ago, if you saw a chemotherapy patient who had lost their hair, you might have pointed...some may have silently laughed behind their back. Now, you have a better understanding as to why they lose their hair and have compassion for them.

IBD patients are looking for that same compassion.

Talking about bathroom visits, flatulence and diarrhea are usually used in a joking manner.

For those of us with IBD, it's not a joke...it's our lives.

Now, don't get me wrong, we all have a pretty good sense of humor (we kind of have to), but we do ask for your understanding.

Let's help the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America establish an effective awareness campaign!

Call your local legislators and ask them to co-sponsor "The IBD Research and Awareness Act".

By supporting this bill, we can help thousands of patients who suffer silently and let them know that they are not alone.

Cheers,

Brent

Advocacy In Action

2009-11-14T12:43:00.000-08:00

Up until today, my advocacy efforts were mainly done in front of my computer or through various calls placed to legislators.

In speaking with Scott Golden, Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Marsha Blackburn (TN-R 7th), I found out there would be a town hall meeting in Lexington, TN mainly focusing on the current health care reform bill.

Even though I am not in her district (though as the Tennessee Advocacy Chair, I represent her constituents), I made the hour drive past right past I-40 to Sparky's Pizzeria and Grill.

This was a whole new experience for me. I was taking my commitment to this piece of legislation and going out into the political realm.

I arrived about 25 minutes early and found several other folks waiting in the back meeting room. We all exchanged pleasantries as we waited for the guest of honor to arrive. A staff member informed us that Representative Blackburn would be around 10 minutes late because of a previous engagement earlier in the morning.

Around 11:15am, Congressman Blackburn entered the meeting room and greeted everyone in attendance personally. Being somewhat new to this whole process I was taken in by her presence as she shook my hand, "Hello, my name is Brent Hinson...it's an honor to meet you," I said as an amateur lobbyist.

For a majority of the meeting, I sat and listened to her viewpoints in regards to the current health care reform bill. She made a lot of interesting points as I remained objective. I did interject once by raising my hand, "Is there no middle ground...I mean, is everything black and white...is there no compromise?" On this particular issue, the congressman illustrated how polarizing this bill (H.R. 3200) is between the political parties.

As she finished answering questions and took a few pictures, I introduced myself to Scott Golden and thank him for inviting me to this meeting. I presented him with a copy of the summary of the IBD bill. He asked me to follow him and asked that I wait while the congressman finished greeting her constituents as she exited.

"We'll do a walk and talk...you can make your pitch to her as she leaves," Golden explained to me.

You have to remember, going into this meeting, there was no guarantee that I would even be able to speak with her.

As she prepared for her exit, I introduced myself again, clarified which bill I wanted to discuss, explained that this bill was very similar to one she had previous co-sponsored and specifically asked her to co-sponsored this bill.

Now, I realize this isn't the best way to go about discussing this piece of legislation, but I had to make the most out of my one-on-one face time.

I thanked her for her time, asked that she research the bill and sign on to it. I also managed to give her a CCFA "Got Guts" bracelet.

She was headed back to Nashville, so I hope she was able to look over the bill summary and give it careful consideration. Health care (along with unemployment) seem to be at the top of the pile for our legislators. I know there are other aspects that she must give her attention to, but I did my best to bring "inflammatory bowel disease" to the forefront of her mind.

Keep those calls, emails and letters going into her office so that it remains a priority and she co-sponsors the IBD bill!

Cheers,

B

Small Steps Toward Change

2009-11-13T12:53:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week as an advocate!

I've been setting up meetings, working out a schedule to meet with legislator aides and holding down my full-time job!

Next Friday morning, I'll meet with Jennifer, a member of Senator Bob Corker's staff, in Union City, TN to discuss the IBD bill. Then, I'll drive to Jackson, TN to meet with Brad, a member of Congressman John Tanner's staff.

Tomorrow, there is a event in Lexington, TN where Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn will be in attendance. I plan on making the drive to Sparky's Pizzeria and Grill for the one hour meeting. Scott, from Congresswoman Blackburn's office, said this was a "town hall" meeting so there is no guarantee that I'll get to speak with her, but I'll make every attempt to request a moment of her time. Congresswoman Blackburn co-sponsored the previous bill (H.R. 1113), so I hope she will again sign on this time around.

One issue about "The IBD Research and Awareness Act" that comes up a lot is funding. Funding concerns are not an issue with this bill. There is no money associated with the National Institute of Health (NIH) section and very nominal amounts in the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) section.

Plus, this is an authorizing bill, not an appropriations bill. So, money for programs at the CDC won't material until the bill is passed and the Appropriations Committee provides funding in its annual spending bill for the CDC. *Thank to Gavin for the additional insight.

I hope that clarifies any misunderstandings and helps everyone realize just how important this bill is for IBD patients. This bill will help existing patients, but also encourage those who may be suffering from symptoms to see a gastroenterologist. If people are aware of the signs, they can be properly diagnosed and start an effective treatment program.

I didn't know anything about Crohn's, colitis or IBD in February 2000 when I was diagnosed. Now, I have a wealth of knowledge and want to help share that so no one has to go through the pain and embarrassment that I experienced.

One last note for today. I would like to thank Nick Collard for all his hard work raising awareness about IBD and fund-raising with his Team Challenge program. Please, support his work by donating to his team and help him reach his goal!

Be well and I wish everyone great health.

Cheers,

B

Forward Progress!

2009-11-09T10:30:00.000-08:00

During our advocacy conference call on Thursday night, Gavin Lindberg (CCFA legislative consultant) stressed the importance of one-on-one meetings with legislators.

Up until that point, I had pretty much stayed consistent with letters and emails. I thought it was a great jumping off point and it gave me something to focus on until my advocacy call.

On Friday, Gavin emailed me an effective document to help secure meetings with my Senators and Congressmen/women.

Eager to garner more support for "The IBD Research and Awareness Act," I called my local Congressman and both state Senators requesting meetings to discuss the bill in detail. I also faxed formal written requests to all three as well.

In hindsight, Friday probably wasn't the best day to make a request for a meeting...especially this past Friday because of the important health care vote over the weekend.

However, to my great surprise, I received an email from the office of Senator Alexander at 9:00 this morning asking where I'd like to meet (Washington D.C. office or one of his TN offices). I responded back indicating that a Tennessee meeting at his convenience would be great. Moments later, another email arrived with details that my request would be submitted to his Nashville office and I would hear back shortly.

I had a work-related meeting mid-morning, so I was out of the office for about an hour. Upon my return, I had a voice mail from the office of Senator Corker in regards to my request. I quickly dialed the number left by his staff member. Unfortunately, I was unable to speak with anyone during that time, but left a message and thanked them for their quick response.

While no dates are set up just yet, this is a great illustration of taking that first step in being a part of the political process. Our legislators represent us, so it is our obligation to let them know our thoughts and views.

I am now working on submitting a formal request to meet with Marsha Blackburn (R-TN 7th District), who previously co-sponsored a similar *bill before the House.

*This bill (H.R. 1113) was proposed in a previous session of Congress. Sessions of Congress last two years, and at the end of each session all proposed bills and resolutions that haven't passed are cleared from the books*

Again, this goes to show that time is of the essence to secure c0-sponsors, pass this bill through the House and Senate and have President Obama sign it into law!

Thumbs up to everyone who continues to work hard!

Cheers,

Brent

Personalizing IBD - The Way To Pass The IBD Bill

2009-11-06T06:36:00.000-08:00

Last night I took part in a conference call with 3 great individuals from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (Amy Friedman, Gavin Linberg and Steve Goodman).

As Advocacy Chairperson for my local chapter (Tennessee), they helped give insight on how to effectively communicate with legislators and, ultimately, how to secure co-sponsors for "The IBD Research and Awareness Act." They also provided detailed background on the bill and explained exactly how this grassroots movement began. I'll try to sum up my call based on the notes I took during our conversation.

Amy works in New York for the CCFA and helped spearhead the advocacy movement. Gavin is a CCFA legislator consultant in Washington D.C. and has many years of experience working with politicians. Steve is the president of the Georgia chapter of the CCFA and is our mentor in this advocacy process.

Basically, as advocates, our main goal right now is to help pass the IBD bill that is before Congress. Time is off the essence as a new Congress will assemble next November.

The great thing about this bill is that it is a bi-partisan piece of legislation. How is that possible you say? Republicans, Democrats and Independents can't seem to agree on anything (I say that tongue in cheek). It is possible because the bill was introduced by legislators who are affected by IBD. Again, this disease doesn't discriminate.

For instance, Senator Harry Reid's (D-NV) wife has ulcerative colitis. Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS) has a college friend with UC. Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) has Crohn's disease.

They have a personal connection to this disease and want to pass the bill as much as we do.

Now, our job is to tell our personal stories face-to-face with our local legislators. All 3 were confident that if we were to sit down, explain our background with IBD and then specifically ask for co-sponsorship, senators and congressmen/women would sign on.

The part that I needed help with is setting up meetings. However, Gavin explained that I (or anyone interested) should call, ask for a formal meeting, submit a written request and be persistent...not pushy...just persistent. He indicated that it may take several phone calls, but a meeting would eventually come to fruition. Plus, make yourself available around their schedule. If the best time is on a Saturday at 1pm, jump at the first chance for a meeting!

The bill itself is brief and easy to explain:

1. Expand research at the National Institute of Health.
2. Establish an awareness program at the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
(I didn't realize this, but there are many disease-specific awareness programs at the CDC, but there isn't one for "inflammatory bowel disease" (IBD)!)
3. Establish a pediatric registry at the CDC in order to help advance pediatric research.
4. Authorize for five (5) years an IBD program at the CDC. This will make sure sure it is formally funded and authorized by Congress.

Ultimately, it comes down to more awareness and research.

I encourage everyone to keep calling, writing and emailing your local legislators but, if you have the time, consider meeting with them one-on-one and put a personalized story with this disease.

Network with friends and co-workers to find out who might have contacts with a senator or congressman/woman.

Explain, in detail, how many days you've spent in the hospital, the vast amount of pills you have to take on a daily basis or the surgery you had to go through. Describe the pain, frustration, anxiety, depression and fear of living with a chronic disease.

We will get this bill passed into law! I am extremely motivated to do my part and hope I can inspire others to make their voice be heard.

If you need help or if you have questions...PLEASE contact me at any time.

Thank you to all who have helped thus far!

Cheers,

Brent Hinson
Advocacy Chair - TN Chapter - CCFA
ccfaadvocacy@gmail.com
TN Advocacy on Twitter

It's Amazing What Incentives Will Do!

2009-10-31T07:38:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of years, I've taken part in the nationwide "Take Steps for Crohn's and Colitis" fundraising walk. However, instead of going to Memphis or Nashville, I decided to organize a local walk to help bring attention to "inflammatory bowel disease" (IBD) in my rural community. In 2008 and 2009, we walked on the fitness trail on the campus of the University of Tennessee at Martin with great success. We were able to spread a lot of awareness in Northwest Tennessee thanks, in part, to friends, family and amazing contacts at various local media outlets.

This year, I haven't decided whether or not to continue my local walk just yet. The primary reason is that as Advocacy Chairperson of the TN Chapter, it is one of my responsibilities to attend the "big city" events and volunteer in helping with the walk. In addition, I will invite local legislators to our walks and encourage them to participate.

Usually I register my team, "The Rolling Crohn's", sometime around March or April. However, an email from the "Take Steps" folks last night helped light a fire under my butt (no pun) in registering a little early this year.

As an incentive to encourage people to register their teams early and, thus, begin their fundraising efforts, the CCFA "Take Steps" community came up with a strange, albeit, creative way to get things moving.

According to their email:

"Register for the Take Steps Walk before November 30th and you will be entered into your local walk site contest for free toilet paper for one month. One local walk site winner will go on to win the national grand prize of free toilet paper for a year!"

I swear, I'm not making this up! The amazing part is that I got up this morning and registered my team on October 31, 2009 for the Nashville walk scheduled for May 22, 2010. Hey, toilet paper is a sacred commodity around this house.

*Quick side bar - as it is Halloween, please resist the urge to "roll" someone's house tonight. It's not the mess that bothers me, it's the wasting of the precious TP that gets me. One caveat: If you choose to use cheap dollar store toilet paper, have at it*

Anyway, our team is ready to go! Right now, it's just Mandy, Xavier and me, but feel free to donate to or join The Rolling Crohns. You don't have to attend the walk in Nashville to be a part of our team. You can join our team, spread awareness and raise funds for a great cause! We'd love to have you as part of our team.

Our team goal is $1500, but I'd really love to exceed that this year. So, in lieu of Christmas or birthday gifts for me, I ask you to consider donating to our team. A cure for Crohn's and colitis means a lot to me...that would be the best gift I could ever receive.

Here are a couple of videos from our 2008 and 2009 walks.

I know budgets are stretched thin in every household, so any dollar amount is greatly appreciated!

To join our team or donate, click here.

Thanks to all who have walked with us in the past or donated generously! Your support means a lot to me.

Cheers,

Brent

The Incredible Shrinking Man

2009-10-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

Remember that movie back in the eighties with Lily Tomlin called "The Incredible Shrinking Woman"?

Well, that's kind of an issue with folks who have inflammatory bowel disease. Weight gain and loss is a constant matter of contention with IBD.

For instance, when I was first diagnosed, I was put on Prednisone to control the inflammation in my gut. For those who don't know, Prednisone is a steroid. While it is useful in short-term situations, it's long-term effects can be harmful to a person's body.

Immediately after taking Prednisone, I felt like a new person. My abdominal pain was gone (or, at least relieved) and my appetite came back...with a vengeance! I could eat a whole bag of "Chips Ahoy" in one sitting...I'm not kidding....ask Mandy.

Suddenly, this 22 year old, skinny, 6 foot 4 inch kid was ballooning up! With Prednisone, you can get what is called "Moon Face"...a sort of rounding of your facial features.

Again, Prednisone isn't good for the long-term. It can lower your resistance to infections, increase your risk for osteoporosis, decrease wound healing among other things.

I have seen my weight fluctuate over the past 10 years. At one point, I think I got up to 280lbs. Ideally, I like to stay around 220lbs or so.

Lately, my weight has dropped down to 199lbs. I've made some lifestyle and diet changes that reflect my current weight.

Because I lost 1/4 of my colon during a resection in 2000, I don't absorb nutrients from the food I eat and, therefore, use the restroom quite frequently. Basically, everything runs right through me (I'm trying not to use the "D" word...OK, diarrhea).

So, I'm watching what I eat, drinking more water and making sure I get my nutrients (& vitamins) from other sources.

It's a constant battle. I would love to throw down on a Big Mac without consequences or eat at our local Mexican restaurant (*cough* Los Portales *cough*) without using their facilities before I leave, but that's not realistic.

I hope these blogs help personalize this disease and help everyone understand the different symptoms involved.

Educating and raising awareness WILL help bring IBD to the forefront of people's minds.

Be an advocate and make your voice be heard!

Cheers,

Brent

Featured In Wishlist Foundation Newsletter

2009-10-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

As a follow-up to yesterdays post about receiving help from the Wishlist Foundation Street Team, Laura sent me a copy of their latest newsletter this afternoon.

In this issue of the newsletter, they list all the different projects they are working on including upcoming Pearl Jam pre-show fundraisers in Philadelphia (Oct 27, 28, 30 & 31) benefiting The Yellow Ribbon Club and The Gift Of Life Family House, advocating breast cancer awareness for National Brest Cancer Awareness Month and helping me contact legislators in the House and Senate to ask them to co-sponsor the "IBD Research and Awareness Act".

Once again, thank you to the members of the street team who are taking a moment out of their day to help spread awareness and be advocates for inflammatory bowel disease.

If you're interested in becoming a member of the Wishlist Foundation Street Team, simply go to their Fancorps website to sign up.

Special thanks to Rochelle Howke for already completing this task by emailing her senators in Virginia!

Legislator Contact Update Regarding IBD Bill

2009-10-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

Over the past 3 1/2 weeks, I have managed to send emails and physical letters to Congressman John Tanner (D-TN 8th District) and Senators Lemar Alexander and Bob Corker.

Thus far, I've received email responses from Senators Alexander and Corker. While Senator Alexander's email seemed to be a more generic one about health care, Senator Corker did specifically address the issue of inflammatory bowel disease and the bill.

Unfortunately, I've had no contact with Congressman Tanner yet. I did send a follow up email yesterday asking for his support of the bill and offering time to meet with him.

I've been hesitant to place calls to the offices of the aforementioned legislators until I speak with Steve Goodman, a member of the CCFA National Board's Public Outreach and Partnership Subcommittee. Goodman will be able to provide the necessary training and advice in order to be a more successful advocate. I will take part in a conference call within the next few weeks.

I have sent thank you emails to several key legislators who have already co-sponsored the bill and have reached out to Congressman Ed Whitfield (R-KY 1st District) about supporting the bill.

I did receive an immediate email response from Congressman Whitfield:

"Thank you for contacting me to express your views. I believe effective government can only be achieved with an open and constructive dialogue. For this reason, your input is especially helpful to me. I will respond to your views with a more detailed correspondence via standard mail."

I will continue my efforts to educate legislators about inflammatory bowel disease and, in the process, raise awareness within my community & online.

Again, I encourage you to research this bill and ask your local legislators for co-sponsorship.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at any time: ccfaadvocacy@gmail.com

Cheers,

Brent

Help From Familiar Friends

2009-10-22T06:36:00.000-07:00

Sometime around late September 2004, I started working with fellow Pearl Jam fan Laura Trafton on organizing a small grassroots fundraiser for the St. Louis food bank before the "Vote For Change" tour. With just a couple of weeks to plan things out, we raised over 200lbs of food and clothing for the St. Louis Area Food Bank.

In 2005, I decided to build on that idea and raise awareness about Crohn's and colitis before Pearl Jam shows in Canada. To my amazement, these little meet-ups raised over $20,000 for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of Canada.

Again, building on that momentum, Laura and I partnered up for a similar campaign for Pearl Jam's 2006 tour. We set a goal to top the $20,000 figure we attained in Canada and held pre-show fundraisers across the country. Again, to our astonishment, fans came through with donations, support and excitement. The best part (aside from the unbelievable amount of money raised for the CCFA) was shining a light on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We were spreading awareness in a fun and positive way.

Around the same time, Laura and I started discussing an idea of forming a non-profit organization to help the myriad of charities that Pearl Jam supports year round (not just during tours). We wanted to raise awareness (and money) for other charities that might not get as much exposure as others.

To her credit, Laura took the idea and created The Wish list Foundation. On September 14, 2006, the Wishlist Foundation was legally registered as a nonprofit corporation in Illinois. They are now dedicated to supporting Pearl Jam’s charitable and philanthropic goals.

While I still try to help out from time-to-time, my participation level decreased because of family priorities and work commitments. I did, however, manage to get a letter published in Relix magazine commending The Wishlist Foundation and Pearl Jam fans. Pearl Jam, Mike McCready and a host of artists and fans continue to keep the momentum going for various causes and charities.

Now, as I find myself working to help pass the IBD Research and Awareness Act, I am grateful to know that I have continued support from The Wishlist Foundation. They have formed a grassroots street team made up of fans and volunteers who work together to promote the Wishlist Foundation, their beneficiaries and Pearl Jam. The street team is now working to help me get this important piece of legislation passed. I can't thank them enough.

In addition, I have to thank the folks at the Pearl Jam message board for sticking my post to the top of the board and for all the efforts of the fans to write, call and email their local legislators.

With the right amount of motivation, inspiration, determination and other words ending in "ation", we can make our voices be heard. We can shed light on causes and organizations that might not get the attention they need.

Thank you to my wife, family, friends, Laura, Pearl Jam fans, Mike McCready and the Wishlist Foundation for working to find a cure and continuing to raise awareness about IBD.

Cheers,

Brent

Putting A Famous Face On IBD

2009-10-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

When you think about Inflammatory Bowel Disease, you normally think about the person sitting across from you in the waiting room of your Gastroenterologist office. You see normal every day people: Those who work in a professional environment, school-age children & college students or senior members of the community.

But, this disease doesn't discriminate. There is a long list of famous faces who struggle daily and fight with the rest of us.

I was amazed to learn in 2003 that Mike McCready, guitarist for Pearl Jam, was diagnosed with IBD at a young age. When McCready became an outspoken advocate for IBD awareness, he helped me come to terms with my own condition. I was embarrassed to talk about how I had to go to the bathroom 10 times a day or felt anxious about finding a bathroom in public. McCready has always been extremely candid in discussing his condition. I've always appreciated his candor in explaining things that I've had the displeasure of experiencing. McCready is the person who inspired me to be proactive in raising awareness about Crohn's and colitis.

When I was diagnosed, I didn't know anyone, let alone a celebrity, who suffered from IBD. Since then, I've learned that there are quite a few famous faces who have Crohn's, colitis or both.

Rolf Benirschke is a former NFL kicker for the San Diego Chargers and founder of the "Great Comeback s" program.

David Garrard is the current Quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars. As a matter of fact, for every rushing or passing touchdown that David scores during the' 09 football season, Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. will make a donation of $10,000 to CCFA for research, education, and support initiatives.

Anastacia is a songwriter, a singer and a dancer from Chicago. She was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at age 13. She had a huge hit with "I'm Outta Love" in 2000.

Beth Orton is a british singer, songwriter who was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease at the age of 17.

George "The Animal" Steele (real name: Jim Myers) is a former wrestler for the WWF. He also speaks very candidly about living with Crohn's on his website.

Shannen Doherty most famously played Brenda Walsh on "Beverly Hills 90210" in the 90's. She's also starred on TV shows like "Charmed" and "Our House". Her film credits include "Heathers" and "Mallrats".

I've really only touched on the surface of celebrities, public figures and politicians who also have IBD. For instance, former President George H.W. Bush's youngest son, Marvin, was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and in 1991, the CCFA named Marvin Bush as its spokesman.

So, you are not alone in this fight. For years, I thought I was the only one. Since then, I've met some really great people who have shared their stories with me and have shown me that life continues regardless of what diagnosis we've been given.

Keep your head up, be proactive and continue to educate & raise awareness about IBD!

Cheers,

Brent

Email Response From Senator Alexander

2009-10-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

Got home tonight, checked my email and found a response from Senator Lemar Alexander regarding my inquiry last week about the IBD bill. This email was a little less personal than Senator Corker's but appreciated nevertheless.

"Dear Brent,
Thanks very much for getting in touch with me and letting me know what's on your mind regarding health care reform.

Providing every American with genuine access to quality, affordable health care is one of my highest priorities as a member of the U.S. Senate. Unfortunately, the health care bills we're debating right now flunk their most important test, which is cost. These bills - including the Kennedy health care bill that I voted against in committee on July 15, 2009 - are good faith efforts to find the best way to go in the wrong direction. We have to start over to get it right.

Why do we have to start over? People at home in Tennessee, the Mayo Clinic, 1,000 local chambers of commerce and businesses, Democratic governors, and the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office all basically say, "These plans have too many problems." Add all those problems up, and this is what you'd get in Tennessee:

• Dumping 300,000 low-income Tennesseans into the failed Medicaid program (known as TennCare in Tennessee), even though right now 40 percent of doctors won't see Medicaid patients. Then they're going to shift the cost to the states after about five years - the equivalent of a 5 percent to 10 percent new state income tax in Tennessee.

• Around 900,000 Tennesseans could be affected by proposed cuts to Medicare.

• Up to 1.6 million Tennessee workers could lose their employer-provided health insurance.

• As many as 2 million Tennesseans are at risk of being forced into a new government-run plan.

I believe that the era of the thousand-page bill is over. The best way to get a result on health care and other major issues facing our nation is to re-earn the trust of the American people by working step by step to begin solving the challenges facing our country. Instead of a trillion-dollar, thousand-page comprehensive health care bill centered around a government-run plan, as a first step we might allow small business pooling to reduce health care costs and increase access to affordable coverage. We could reform medical malpractice laws so runaway junk lawsuits don't continue to drive up the cost of health care. We could allow individual Americans to purchase health care across state lines like they can with their car insurance today. We could enact meaningful insurance market reforms, such as making sure that people aren't disqualified from getting health coverage because of preexisting conditions.

These are some steps we could take in the right direction, which would improve our existing health care system without adding trillions more to the national debt and dumping new debt on the states. I appreciate your taking the time to let me know where you stand on this important issue, and I'll be sure to consider your comments as health care is discussed and debated in Washington and in Tennessee.

Sincerely,

Lamar"

As you can tell this appears to be a generic email response about health care. To be fair, in my email to Senator Alexander, I chose "health care" as the topic of my correspondence. It's now my job to be more aggressive in educating the senator about IBD and more direct in asking for him to co-sponsor the "IBD Research and Awareness Act".

Again, thank you to the senator for sending an email acknowledging my letter and hope to hear more from him in the future.

This is only the first step towards garnering more attention about S. 981!

I encourage all of you to email, write and call your legislators and ask them directly to co-sponsor the "IBD Research and Awareness Act".

This CCFA web page is a great resource and can help you along the way.

Continue to raise awareness about inflammatory bowel disease! We will find a cure!

Cheers,

Brent

Being A Father...And Having Crohn's Disease

2009-10-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

Many of you hear me talk about Crohn's disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) quite often. Those close to me see how it's affects my life on a daily basis...others don't. I do my best to solider on through difficult times with as much of a smile as I can.

Crohn's disease is more than just stomach pains and frequent bathroom visits. IBD is fatigue, depression, anxiety and fear of missing something special.

Today was one of those days where I wanted to do something but my body and mind made it difficult.

Today, we made it a point to make plans to go to UTM's Homecoming festivities and football game. I'm always hesitant to make plans because I never know how I'm going to feel from day-to-day. So, when Mandy asked if I wanted to go to the Homecoming pre-game and then the UTM game, I kind of figured I could muster enough energy for one or the other...but probably not both.

We got bundled up and took Xavier with us to "Quad-City". I got to see Xavier jump in the inflatables, pet the animals, hear the band play one of his favorite songs and even cry when trying to take his picture with "Captain Skyhawk". Those are the moments I want to experience. As my friend Szurgot says, "If the kid is crying...that's the moment...for better or worse, enjoy the moment."

Then, before the game, we decided to stop for lunch. And that's when I began to feel the fatigue set in. I was mentally and physically tired...to the point where all I wanted to do was lay on the couch.

Regrettably, I had to tell Mandy that I wouldn't be able to go to the game with her and Xavier. I had to put my life on hold for this disease.

As we passed the stadium, Mandy commented that she was sad that I wouldn't be there for Xavier's first football game.

When you're a parent, you want to be there to experience everything (or as much as you can) your child experiences. You get to live vicariously through them and be a kid again.

I didn't want to miss seeing Xavier walk into the stadium or cheering on the team, but I was completely worn out. Even if I did go, I would be miserable.

So, I came home, covered up and got some rest on the couch for a couple of hours. I felt a lot of guilt though. This isn't the first time that I've wanted to do something with my son (or my wife, family and friends), but couldn't pull myself up in order to go.

Guilt got the better of me and I decided that I wasn't going to let this disease keep me from sitting in the stands with my son.

I decided to get up and, at the very least, get there by halftime and enjoy the remainder of the day with my wife and son.

Truth be told, when I got there he was tired, cold and not really interested in the game. But, that's the moment I'll remember about his first football game even if he didn't have a care in the world whether I was there or not.

Even if the romanticized version of each moment doesn't turn out exactly how I picture it in my head, I want the opportunity to be there for it.

I think that's what frustrates me the most...not knowing what each day will bring. Will I have enough energy to see him run the bases at tee-ball? Will I be too tired to tell him about all the music I'm passionate about?

I had to come home and write all of this down before fatigue got the better of me.

Luckily, I receive my next dose of Remicade on Monday. Hopefully, I'll get more pep in my step shortly thereafter.

So, there you go...a real personal story from someone with IBD who has to learn how to live each day and enjoy each moment as it comes.

I hope you come away from this with a better awareness of what it's like dealing with a chronic illness. I'm not looking for pity...just understanding.

Ultimately, I want the opportunity to experience life and not let a disease take that away from me. It's tough, but I continue to work through it.

Cheers,

Brent

Response To Senator Bob Corker's Email

2009-10-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

In reviewing the email I received from Senator Corker on Tuesday, one part stood out that I wanted to make sure to clarify:

"I would also like to share with you that I have consistently supported broad-based medical research. On March 13 of last year, I voted in favor of an amendment to increase NIH funding by $2.1 billion in the 2009 budget. It is my hope that this across-the-board increase in research funding will benefit all disease-specific medical research, including inflammatory bowel disease."

While I applaud the senator for voting in favor of an increase in NIH funding, I also want to express the Sense of Congress that the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease at NIH should expand support for research on inflammatory bowel disease.

With over 28,000 patients just in Tennessee alone, this piece of legislation is extremely important for his constituents.

I emailed him a response with more information and, again, asked specifically for him to co-sponsor S. 981 "The IBD Research and Awareness Act."

I really do appreciate the fact that the senator responded so quickly to my email. I hope he takes the additional information I supplied and moves forward with co-sponsorship.

Please feel free to email Senator Corker and urge him to help pass this important piece of legislation for IBD patients and their families!

Cheers,

Brent

Senator Bob Corker Responds To My Email

2009-10-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

I wasn't sure if I would get a direct response from my inquires to my congressman and senators about the "IBD Research and Awareness Act". At most, I figured I would get a form letter or something nice saying "thanks for writing."

However, today, I received a response from Senator Bob Corker (R) - Tennessee, via email, that specifically mentions the information I supplied and thanks me for my input.

Below is the body of the correspondence:

Dear Mr. Hinson,
Thank you for taking the time to contact my office about S. 981, the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research and Awareness Act. Your input is important to me, and I appreciate the time you took to share your thoughts.

My heart goes out to all of those suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. I fully understand that this is a serious and debilitating disease and I share your desire to find better treatments. The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research Enhancement Act is currently before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. The information you've provided here will certainly help my staff and me more effectively look into this issue.
Thank you again for your letter. I hope you will continue to share your thoughts with me.

Sincerely,

Bob Corker
United States Senator

I encourage everyone to contact Senator Corker and other legislators in regards to this bill and ask them to co-sponsor this important piece of legislation.

If you would like more information about the "IBD Research and Awareness Act", please feel free to contact me at any time.

Cheers,

Brent

What Are Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis?

2009-10-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

Crohn's & Colitis

•Crohn's disease is a chronic (ongoing) disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Although it can involve any area of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus, it most commonly affects the small intestine and/or colon.

•Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic (ongoing) disease of the colon, or large intestine. The disease is marked by inflammation and ulceration of the colon mucosa, or innermost lining. Tiny open sores, or ulcers, form on the surface of the lining, where they bleed and produce pus and mucus. Because the inflammation makes the colon empty frequently, symptoms typically include diarrhea (sometimes bloody) and often crampy abdominal pain.

The inflammation usually begins in the rectum and lower colon, but it may also involve the entire colon. When ulcerative colitis affects only the lowest part of the colon -- the rectum -- it is called ulcerative proctitis. If the disease affects only the left side of the colon, it is called limited or distal colitis. If it involves the entire colon, it is termed pancolitis.

•Ulcerative colitis differs from another inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease. Crohn's can affect any area of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the small intestine and colon. Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, affects only the colon. The inflammation involves the entire rectum and extends up the colon in a continuous manner. There are no areas of normal intestine between the areas of diseased intestine. In contrast, such so-called "skip" areas may occur in Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis affects only the innermost lining of the colon, whereas Crohn's disease can affect the entire thickness of the bowel wall.

•What Causes These Conditions?

Although considerable progress has been made in IBD research, investigators do not yet know the cause. Studies indicate that the inflammation in IBD involves a complex interaction of factors: the genes the person has inherited, the immune system, and something in the environment. Foreign substances (antigens) in the environment may be the direct cause of the inflammation, or they may stimulate the body's defenses to produce an inflammation that continues without control.

•What Can You Do To Help Find A Cure?

A bill, THE IBD RESEARCH AND AWARENESS ACT, to support research and public awareness activities with respect to inflammatory bowel disease, and for other purposes was introduced to the House and Senate in May 2009.

Sen. Harry Reid [D-NV] sponsored the bill in the Senate and Rep. Jesse Jackson [D-IL2] sponsored the bill in the House of Representatives.

If there are 218 co-sponsors (half of the House) for the House bill and 51 co-sponsors (half of the Senate) for the Senate bill in the next 8 - 10 months, we will be well positioned to pass the bill.

We need your help to voice your support of this bill. Please contact your local Senator and Congressman/Congresswoman to encourage them to co-sponsor this piece of legislation.

The IBD Research and Awareness Act: Overview

2009-10-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

Senate

S. 981 - A bill to support research and public awareness activities with respect to inflammatory bowel disease, and for other purposes.

Original Sponsor: Harry Reid (D) - Nevada - May 5, 2009

Co-Sponsors (and co-sponsor date):
*Christopher Dodd (D) - Connecticut - 09/11/2009
*Joseph Lieberman (I) - Connecticut - 06/02/2009
*Daniel Inouye (D) - Hawaii - 05/13/2009
*Debbie Stabenow (D) - Michigan - 06/25/2009
*Thad Cochran (R) - Mississippi - 05/07/2009
*Sherrod Brown (D) - Ohio - 05/13/2009
*Jack Reed (D) - Rhode Island - 07/07/2009

House of Representatives

H.R.2275 - To support research and public awareness activities with respect to inflammatory bowel disease, and for other purposes.

Original Sponsor: Jesse Jackson (D) - Illinois - May 6, 2009

Co-Sponsors (and co-sponsor date):
*Harry Mitchell (D 5th) - Arizona - 05/14/2009
*Barbara Lee (D 9th) - California - 06/04/2009
*Michael Honda (D 15th) - California - 06/16/2009
*Adam Schiff (D 29th) - California - 06/04/2009
*Lucille Roybal-Allard (D 34th) - California - 09/25/2009
*Michael Castle (R At-Large) - Delaware - 05/06/2009
*Ander Crenshaw (R 4th) - Florida - 05/06/2009
*C.W. Bill Young (R 10th) - Florida - 07/31/2009
*Robert Wexler (D 19th) - Florida - 06/16/2009
*Sanford Bishop (D 2nd) - Georgia - 06/04/2009
*Henry Johnson (D 4th) - Georgia - 06/04/2009
*Jim Marshall (D 8th) - Georgia - 06/04/2009
*Bobby Rush (D 1st) - Illinois - 07/22/2009
*Janice Schakowsky (D 9th) - Illinois - 07/31/2009
*Mark Kirk (R 10th) - Illinois - 07/22/2009
*Brad Ellsworth (D 8th) - Indiana 06/16/2009
*Dennis Moore (D 3rd) - Kansas - 07/22/2009
*John Olver (D 1st) - Massachusetts - 07/31/2009
*James McGovern (D 3rd) - Massachusetts - 06/04/2009
*Barney Frank (D 4th) - Massachusetts - 06/04/2009
*Michael Capuano (D 8th) - Massachusetts - 07/31/2009
*William Delahunt (D 10th) - Massachusetts - 06/16/2009
*Dale Kildee (D 5th) - Michigan - 06/04/2009
*Thaddeus McCotter (R 11th) - Michigan - 06/25/2009
*Gene Taylor (D 4th) - Mississippi - 07/22/2009
*Carol Shea-Porter (D 1st) - New Hampshire - 07/22/2009
*Frank LoBiondo (R 2nd) - New Jersey - 05/14/2009
*Donald Payne (D 10th) - New Jersey - 06/04/2009
*Albio Sires (D 13th) - New Jersey - 07/22/2009
*Tim Bishop (D 1st) - New York - 07/22/2009
*Steve Israel (D 2nd) - New York - 06/04/2009
*Peter King (R 3rd) - New York - 06/16/2009
*Gary Ackerman (D 5th) - New York - 07/22/2009
*Gregory Meeks (D 6th) - New York - 07/31/2009
*Anthony Weiner (D 9th) - New York - 09/25/2009
*Carolyn Maloney (D 14th) - New York - 06/04/2009
*Jose Serrano (D 16th) - New York - 09/25/2009
*Nita Lowey (D 18th) - New York - 06/16/2009
*Maurice Hinchey (D 22nd) - New York - 09/25/2009
*Louise McIntosh Slaughter (D 28th) - New York - 09/25/2009
*Brad Miller (D 13th) - North Carolina - 07/22/2009
*Marcy Kaptur (D 9th) - Ohio - 06/04/2009
*Dennis Kucinich (D 10th) - Ohio - 07/22/2009
*Tim Ryan (D 17th) - Ohio - 05/14/2009
*David Wu (D 1st)- Oregon - 07/31/2009
*Jason Altmire (D 4th) - Pennsylvania - 09/25/2009
*Jim Gerlach (R 6th) - Pennsylvania - 05/14/2009
*Joe Sestak (D 7th) - Pennsylvania - 06/25/2009
*Christopher Carney (D 10th) - Pennsylvania - 05/14/2009
*Paul Kanjorski (D 11th) - Pennsylvania - 05/14/2009
*Tim Holden (D 17th) - Pennsylvania - 05/14/2009
*Tim Murphy (R 18th) - Pennsylvania - 07/22/2009
* Patrick Kennedy (D 1st) - Rhode Island - 07/22/2009
*Bart Gordon (D 6th) - Tennessee - 06/04/2009
*Pete Sessions (R 32nd) - Texas - 07/22/2009
*Frank Wolf (R 10th) - Virginia - 06/16/2009

Please take a moment to email or phone the above-mentioned Senators and Congressmen/Congresswoman to express your thanks for helping this legislation!

Information up-to-date as of October 1st, 2009