People often ask me how they can get involved in Lyme disease advocacy. Among other suggestions, I always recommend taking part in the Center for Lyme Action’s annual Lyme Fly-In. This year it will be held February 22-23.

What is it? An opportunity for Lyme advocates anywhere in the US to tell their elected representatives why increased federal funding for Lyme disease is desperately needed. And ask for their support in the upcoming appropriations process.

How it works: The Center for Lyme Action will set up a video appointment for you and other advocates in your area to meet with the Washington offices of your Congressional representatives. (Sometimes, the elected officials themselves will join in the meetings. However, typically, you’ll meet with staff members.)

Northern California participants meet with a Congressional staffer during 2021’s Virtual Lyme Fly-In.

Don’t worry that you won’t know what to say. The CLA will offer video training to all participants, so you’ll know what to ask for and why.

Why do this? It’s a simple way to make a big impact.

According to Bonnie Crater, of the Center for Lyme Action, “Our collective efforts nearly doubled federal funding from Fiscal Year 2020 to Fiscal Year 2021. And while the Fiscal Year 2022 budget isn’t finalized yet, both the House and the Senate have proposed or voted for additional Lyme funding.”

How to sign up now

STEP 1.  REGISTER. Go to the Center for Lyme Action events page and click the registration button. That will take you to a form to complete.

STEP 2.  MARK YOUR CALENDAR.  Please add the following events to your calendar: February 22, 2022 from 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET for the opening session. Block all day Feb 23, to allow time for three meetings with your Members of Congress (House and Senate). If you would like additional training, block February 15, from 3:00 – 4:30 pm ET for an optional training session.

STEP 3.  STAY TUNED FOR MORE UPDATES. Additional information and instructions will be posted as the Fly-In gets closer.

I’ve already registered to take part. I hope you’ll join me.

Click here to read my re-cap of last year’s Lyme Fly-In.

TOUCHED BY LYME is written by Dorothy Kupcha Leland, LymeDisease.org’s Vice-president and Director of Communications. She is co-author of When Your Child Has Lyme Disease: A Parent’s Survival Guide. Contact her at dleland@lymedisease.org.