ADVOCACY
Advocacy in Action: So Every BODY Can Move
Led by Ciera Price, MSPO, CPO/L, this session began with an in-depth overview of the So Every BODY Can Move campaign by Nicole Ver Kuilen, a disability rights advocate and cancer survivor, who shared her personal journey of founding Forrest Stump and leading the campaign. Nicole highlighted the challenges she faced with accessing appropriate prosthetic care and how it inspired her advocacy efforts.
Nicole emphasized the discriminatory policies that limit access to prosthetic and orthotic care for physical activity, sparking the launch of the campaign. She also discussed the successful initiative of "So Kids Can Move," which led to legislative actions in several states.
After the introduction of Francois Van Der Watt, CPO, Maggie Baumer, JD, Eric Schopmeyer, CO, and Teri Kuffel, JD, as panelists, the discussion also delved into the legislative process, including building a team, drafting model legislation, and navigating the complex timelines and procedures in different states. Testimonies from individuals impacted by the legislation were highlighted as a powerful advocacy tool.
Panelists shared their experiences serving as state leads and managing the legislative process, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships, engaging stakeholders, and celebrating victories along the way.
Below are the five steps:
Step 1: Build Your Team
Step 2: Prepare Your Assets
Step 3: Begin the Legislative Process
Step 4A: Manage the Process
Step 4B: Regroup & Repeat
Step 5: Celebrate Your Legislative Victory
Step 6: Begin Implementation
The discussion provided valuable insights into the comprehensive approach of the So Every BODY Can Move campaign and its significant impact on expanding access to prosthetic and orthotic care for physical activity nationwide.