FAQs about being an Advocate
Congressional CF Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL) meets with teen CF Advocates on the steps of the U.S. Capitol during the CF Foundation’s second annual Teen Advocacy Day. |
It’s easy to become an Advocate on behalf of those with CF! You can make an impact just by telling your story. Below, find answers to the questions and concerns we hear most from Advocates like you.
I can’t commit the time needed to be an Advocate.
Being an Advocate can be as simple as writing a letter or making a phone call to your Member of Congress. With the tools you find here, it will take you no more than five minutes to speak out for cystic fibrosis.
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What can I say that my Member of Congress does not already know?
Members of Congress are just everyday people. Quite often, they are in decision-making positions because they were passionate about an issue and wanted to change something — just like what you’re doing!
Remember, you are an expert on cystic fibrosis. This is an opportunity to share your knowledge about an issue important to you.
Find out who represents you.
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I may freeze up!
Most people find that it’s surprisingly easy to talk about an issue they are passionate about. Tell your cystic fibrosis story. Once you start talking, it’s hard to stop!
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What if they ask questions that I can’t answer?
That’s okay. You’re allowed to be unsure of some things. Just be honest. Tell them, “I’m not sure, but I’ll get back to you with an answer.” Be sure to follow up, by email or with a phone call. They’ll appreciate your honesty, and sometimes information that comes after a meeting is easier to digest. More than likely, you will know far more than they will in regard to cystic fibrosis.
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I’m just one person; can I really make a difference?
Not only are you an expert on cystic fibrosis, you are a constituent — which means your Member of Congress works for YOU! You can inspire your elected officials to help fight cystic fibrosis. See why your story matters to your Members of Congress, and tell them your story about CF.
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It's too difficult!
It’s normal to feel like an issue, such as trying to cure and/or control cystic fibrosis is just too large. But, remember, your goal is simply to address one piece of this challenge at a time.
We will be there to help you, every step of the way, as you prepare for your meeting/letter writing/phone call. Keep in mind — you’re the EXPERT!
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I’ve contacted my member of Congress, but have not heard back — help!
Like all of us, elected officials have very busy schedules. They also receive hundreds of requests from their constituents, each day. The key to making your voice heard is being persistent, but also demonstrating to your members’ offices that you are flexible and understand the challenge that each office has in fulfilling requests.
If you don’t hear from a member’s office within a week of contacting them, call and inquire about when you should expect a response. Keep trying once a week until they get back to you.
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Who can I contact if I have other questions?
Have more questions? Ask the Foundation's Public Policy Department.
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