Michigan Eye-Bank Ambassador Patrick Pruitt went to Washington, D.C. in March for Prevent Blindness America’s Eyes on Capitol Hill campaign. Patrick shares his experience in his own words:
Each March, Washington, D.C. plays host to Prevent Blindness America's Eyes on Capitol Hill campaign. People travel in from all over the country, united by their experiences with vision loss. These vision advocates meet with members of Congress to inform them about the importance of vision health awareness, and discuss ways that Congress can help.
This year I was privileged to take part in the event, representing Michigan. After a day of meeting with the other advocates – hearing their stories, sharing my own – and receiving training from Prevent Blindness America, I was ready to visit the Hill. Joined by fellow Michigan vision advocate Gabrielle Massone (who overcame amblyopia as a child) and her mother Cindy, I met with staff members from the offices of Senators Debbie Stabenow and Carl Levin. I also later met with a legislative assistant from the office of Representative Thaddeus McCotter. In addition to sharing my personal story of vision loss and a subsequent corneal transplant, I urged the adoption of early vision screening and preventative measures.
The offices of the Congresspeople were very receptive and encouraging. It was a great experience, not only because of my personal investment in this issue, but also to see how our democracy works at the most fundamental level – constituents informing their representatives in Congress about the issues that are important to them. By the end of the trip, I had no doubt that such advocacy can make a big difference.
