Advocacy
Advocacy is an essential part of Petronille Healthy Society's (PHS) mission to provide free healthcare services, education, and training to vulnerable and underserved communities. On March 2, 2023, PHS took a significant step in advancing this mission by meeting with senators and representatives of the State of Maryland on Capitol Hill. During this meeting, PHS presented the Nealo's Act Benefits, a proposed benefit act designed to support children undergoing bone marrow transplants for sickle cell disease.
The proposed benefit act is urgently needed to help ease the financial burden of bone marrow transplants for children with sickle cell disease in Maryland. Bone marrow transplant is often the last resort for children diagnosed with sickle cell disease to provide a higher quality of life. However, it is a complex and costly process that can leave families devastated, especially those with limited resources.
The long recovery time and follow-up care can also make it challenging for parents to continue working and providing for their families during treatment.
To provide better support for these families, the proposed Nealo's Act Benefits will provide financial assistance for Maryland families whose children are undergoing bone marrow transplants for sickle cell disease. The assistance could include coverage for medical costs, transportation to and from appointments, and support for lost wages during the recovery process.
Additionally, the proposed benefit act will also provide additional resources and support for families to navigate the complex process of a bone marrow transplant, including access to counseling, support groups, and educational materials to help families make informed decisions and prepare for the long road ahead.
The proposed benefit act will provide not only financial and emotional support for families but also improve sickle cell patients' quality of life. By easing the financial burden of a bone marrow transplant, families can focus on providing the best possible care for their children without the added stress of overwhelming financial hardship.
Petronille Healthy Society (PHS) urges authorities to consider adding the NEALO'S BENEFIT ACT to their agenda. This act will help improve the quality of life for sickle cell patients in Maryland and ensure that all families have access to the care they need during this challenging time.
Advocacy is a crucial tool in advancing the mission of PHS, and this meeting on Capitol Hill is a significant step in achieving the Nealo's Act Benefits' adoption. The proposed benefit act will provide vital support for families of sickle cell patients and alleviate the financial burden of bone marrow transplants. PHS remains committed to advocating for the most vulnerable and underserved communities, and the Nealo's Act Benefits is a testament to this commitment.