KDAE is swiftly approaching...I have received no acceptances, just two impressive regrets. President Obama will not be visiting nor will Dr. Jill Biden. I was disappointed, but not too surprised. One year before too long, I know we will get a visitor from the presidential staff!!! I have been told not to expect acceptances from federal senators and representative until the week before KDAE, but that doesn't dampen my enthusiasm for enthusiasm for calling and emailing their staffers to remind them I hope for a visit. If no visit RSVP is forthcoming, I will get appointment to visit in their offices. I have been sucessful in getting a Louisiana KDAE Proclamation!!!!! I will be continuing to remind local mayors to issue proclamations. I have been lucky enough to find an ANNA member who is excited to be helping with my KDAE plans. This really helps. Chris has helped me fax letters and follow up on calls. I am so grateful for the help. Our chapter president has also been trying to get us on a local TV program that airs just before PRICE IS RIGHT, the dialysis patient's favorite show. It is wonderful to have support and extra ideas. I encourage you to invite officials if you haven't yet. There is still time. You'll be amazed how it makes you understand that you can be part of the change we need. I am always so hyped up and excited after a visit, no matter is it is hosted at a clinic or in the office. Our officials do need our help and do respect the expertise we bring to health care issues. Nurses are trusted and respected. I have had many of our public officials tell me their mothers were nurses. Almost all of them have a close family link to nursing, be it a parent, child, cousin, or spouse. Enough blogging, I have to get ready for work. Linda