Volunteers with Disabilities?

[joeylee]

Hi All*,
Being disabled, I feel this is certainly worth while of starting a new topic. As far as my disability, I need to use a wheelchair, due to two different, but both very serious, chronic diseases, RSD & AVN.

My concern is that others, not nearly as vocal as I am, may not have the means to voice their opinions or frustrations.
In Scranton, yesterday, I wanted to attend the rally more than y'all could imagine. However, I made numerous calls, left several messages, ended up sitting at home watching, someone I consider to be a Hero, Senator Clinton, on television.

If there are other numbers that I should have called, I wish someone would fill me in.

This morning I was visited by a case worker that assists me through the Center for Independent Living (NEPA CIL). After discussing a few of my frustrations with the campaign, those being the attacks by the media, the ridiculous accusations being made by Senator Obama, and then sharing what I know to be FACTUAL, my case-worker's "chin dropped". She now wants me to speak at a yet to be scheduled meeting with the CIL organization.

I want to speak and plan to when asked, however, I would much rather know that I have "someone" to contact if and when there may be a problem.

There are A LOT of us disabled voters out here, please help me to help this campaign, Please!?
Joey Lee*
joeyinpa@comcast.net

[Patsy]

Hi All*,
Being disabled, I feel this is certainly worth while of starting a new topic. As far as my disability, I need to use a wheelchair, due to two different, but both very serious, chronic diseases, RSD & AVN.

My concern is that others, not nearly as vocal as I am, may not have the means to voice their opinions or frustrations.
In Scranton, yesterday, I wanted to attend the rally more than y'all could imagine. However, I made numerous calls, left several messages, ended up sitting at home watching, someone I consider to be a Hero, Senator Clinton, on television.

If there are other numbers that I should have called, I wish someone would fill me in.

This morning I was visited by a case worker that assists me through the Center for Independent Living (NEPA CIL). After discussing a few of my frustrations with the campaign, those being the attacks by the media, the ridiculous accusations being made by Senator Obama, and then sharing what I know to be FACTUAL, my case-worker's "chin dropped". She now wants me to speak at a yet to be scheduled meeting with the CIL organization.

I want to speak and plan to when asked, however, I would much rather know that I have "someone" to contact if and when there may be a problem.

There are A LOT of us disabled voters out here, please help me to help this campaign, Please!?
Joey Lee*
joeyinpa@comcast.net


Hey Joeylee, I will call the HQ in VA and find out if there is any special number to call and if there is a specific person to contact in your state.

When you speak of a problem, are you referring to admittance to an event, or are you afraid of something else during your speech or what? If you will give me the specifics, I will try to get you the answers to all your questions.

You are making a very strong point about addressing the number of disabled Americans and I commend you for talking that person's ear off today:)

Well Done!!!

We will definitely get you the answers and help you need.

Kitty

[joeylee]

Thank You for responding,
1. Yes, the admittance was certainly an issue as I had no way of even finding out how to attend. To my own fault, I know it's a bit late in finding contacts. However, until the wins in Texas and Ohio, and those "oh so unfair and unbalanced" pundits, I worried that PA wouldn't even have a say in this election.
2. The Democratic headquarters itself here in Scranton has been virtually impossible to reach.
3. As to speaking, if and when that does take place, I just want to be assured of the facts. There seems to be a very simple, yet very unknown fact out there, that to me, and everyone I talk to, makes the ENTIRE difference; Not one person I have spoken to over the past few weeks knew that Senator Obama was NOT a US Senator in 2002. This is extremely important, in my opinion, as it makes his "comparisons" and "I did this, She did that" completely untrue, and totally taken out of context.
How does someone who wasn't even in the US Senate compare his record to someone that was? See what I mean?
I honestly think that this is something that the majority of "lay people" just do not even know.

Thank You Again for responding,
I am here to do whatever I can possibly do, I just need some "direction".
Thanks So Much!
Joey Lee

[joeylee]

I meant to also add, please feel free to phone me or email me, you can email me at joeyinpa@comcast.net , I'll also send my number to anyone that requests it.
Thanks...
Joey*

[joeysky18]

I know someone in PA who is a very active volunteer in Scranton. Would you like to get in touch with her?

[joeylee]

wow, another Joey*?
Yes, anyone that can try and point me in the right direction, assist with some of the questions, I will gladly try and reach.
Also, as I said above, anyone can email me as well, if they'd prefer to call, I'll send a number.
Sincere Thanks!
JoeyLee*

[Patsy]

JoeyLee, I'm glad JoeySky is taking care of the Scranton issue for you.

I left a msg at National HQ and hope they will call me back with some additional info for you.

Also, there's a ton of factual information here and we'll work together to get you your own personal set of talking points.

It still amazes me that people still think he actually HAD a vote on the war resolution.

Speaking of which, I can get you the transcript of what Senator Clinton said when she cast her vote.

Thanks for all you are doing!!!

[joeylee]

Thank You Kitty*
I am so glad I finally found this group! So much that CAN be done, does NEED to be done.
Also, Kitty*, I would love to see that transcript, and I'm sure it would help in just getting others to make sense out of it all. It baffles me, some people still believe that if someone says it on TV, it must be true..
And lastly Kitty*,
If there is anything else I can help with, in any regard, please do not hesitate to ask. I know there are a lot of things I may be unable to do physically, but as anyone that knows me would say, "he certainly isn't vocally disabled!". :eek:
JoeyLee*

[Patsy]

I know there are a lot of things I may be unable to do physically, but as anyone that knows me would say, "he certainly isn't vocally disabled!". :eek:
JoeyLee*

We love a good sense of humor and as you can tell we are all very vocal, so welcome, welcome, welcome to the group. We're very glad to have you!

[joeylee]

Thanks Kitty*,
Just in case anyone wonders, as you may notice, I put an asterisk * after most people's names; I do this as a tribute to my own Mother*, who died back in 1991, at the young age of 48. She* has always been my hero, and She's the Angel* that, without doubt, guides me through each and every day.
Kitty*, no doubt about it, the Ability to "talk, and talk and talk..." is one that I seem to have expertise in, LOL. :D
I have not heard from anyone yet, specifically that is. I know it was only yesterday that we began the discussion. I just didn't want anyone to "assume" that any one has been in touch with me.
Also, if for any reason, I need to "unblock" my phone, just let me know as it'll take only a few seconds. I can appreciate that some people just prefer not to have their numbers "public". :rolleyes:
As Always, My Sincere Thanks!
JoeyLee*

[Patsy]

Thanks Kitty*,
Just in case anyone wonders, as you may notice, I put an asterisk * after most people's names; I do this as a tribute to my own Mother*, who died back in 1991, at the young age of 48. She* has always been my hero, and She's the Angel* that, without doubt, guides me through each and every day.
Kitty*, no doubt about it, the Ability to "talk, and talk and talk..." is one that I seem to have expertise in, LOL. :D
I have not heard from anyone yet, specifically that is. I know it was only yesterday that we began the discussion. I just didn't want anyone to "assume" that any one has been in touch with me.
Also, if for any reason, I need to "unblock" my phone, just let me know as it'll take only a few seconds. I can appreciate that some people just prefer not to have their numbers "public". :rolleyes:
As Always, My Sincere Thanks!
JoeyLee*


I haven't heard anything from HQ yet, but I left my mobile number for them. I am heading off to Durham in about an hour and I have all your info, so if they call I will email or call you when I hear.

My name will appear on your phone as Caroline Anderson, so no need to unblock:) for me!

When I return tonight, I'll get that transcript of Hillary speaking on her vote, but if someone should call you in the mean time, just post a thread and ask about it, I know someone has it.

I'll speak to you later!!!

p.s. I love the *

[Kathy in NH]

I was intrigued by your volunteerism and went to your home page. This is a little off-topic, but your private messaging is turned off. I do hope you've explored all avenues of pain management. I work at a pain clinic in NH and can send you the link - we're currently expanding the information on our web site, maybe some of it can be useful for you - my assistant and I research the information on conditions and treatments, go through numerous edits and then final editing numerous times by the good doctor. We have roughly a dozen specialists and will be opening our third clinic soon.

[joeylee]

Hi Kathy*,
Thank You* So Much!
I am absolutely interested. As you may have seen/read, I do quite a bit of advocacy for chronic pain sufferers. It's one main element that too many people do have in common; with much of the "rest of the world" not really understanding.
Compassion is not a word that is often used within the same sentence as Doctors, pain has become almost a "taboo" topic, with Doctors seemingly more afraid of treating drug addicts that treating those with real CP.
But, believe me, there ARE exceptions. I have the most incredible family doctor, yet my "pain management" doctor, well, let's just say, he leaves much to be desired.. :rolleyes:
If there is one thing that's for sure, I am always open to any research/information. I already have a pump implanted, yet it barely takes the edge off.
And, as if the pain isn't enough; my entire family; my father, brothers and my sister all have "denounced" me. As is the case with many, in the public, they seem to think if you don't "look sick", you "must be faking".
But, that's all for now, as I also don't want to get too "off topic".
Many Thanks to All*! (Apologies for going off-topic)
JoeyLee*

[joeysky18]

i have sent an email to that person. Her name is Teresa. once she reply to me, i will give her your email address. i didn't want to post your email in an open blog. we should hear something from her soon.

[joeylee]

Thank You Joey*,
I am truly grateful for your help. I hope that Teresa* does get a hold of me. It looks like it may be quite a busy weekend here in Scranton; believe it or not, we happen to have the 3rd or 4th largest St. Patrick's Day Parade and although I think it was supposed to be more of a "surprise", during the rally on Monday, someone yelled out, and sure enough Senator Clinton is supposed to attend. Everyone is super excited about it.

This actually may be one of the days I may be able to provide more help if necessary. As I'm sure most people would prefer to be at the parade; I wouldn't mind if they needed a volunteer to stay inside the headquarters, which I would gladly do. According to the parade route, it looks as though it will pass right by the HQ.
So, I am here if needed. And, likewise for any other event of any kind.

Thanks Again,
JoeyLee*

[jgilmore]

Just wanted to let you know that there are many of out here with physical limitations. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and have had since 1997. In July of 2006 I lost my job and health insurance. WIthout medication, I became physically dependent on others quickly. The medicine I need runs about $1500 a month. I didn't qualify for the free programs because I had made too much money in 2006. So it has been a rough hall. I am one of those strong supporters of Hillary that after standing forever in a line to vote, did not have the physical capability to continue through to our caucus here in Texas. It is so frustrating. Good luck and know there others out there who understand what you are going through.

[joeylee]

Thanks for adding to the thread. It sucks having to know there are others that do have to suffer with all of this, and with Hillary* AS our next President, things are sure to get much much better.

I do have some resources that may be available to you if you are interested. I have a "resource list", most of which has national links. That can be found at: http://www.joeylee.com/rsdresources.html - even though the URL says RSD resources, it's actually for all chronic pain sufferers. Lastly, on this note, have you tried contacting the actual drug companies? They will often assist in reducing costs, you just have to make the call, and press on it. Montel Williams has had a big impact of some program including all of the drug manufacturers.

I do Hope things get better! If I can ever help, even if just to "listen"/ have someone that understands, I'm just an email address away.
Take Care "JG",
JoeyLee*

[joeylee]

Hi All*,
Thanks to Everyone* for the help. I've been contacted by a few people, David* and I* will be at HQ this morning, after an early Dr. appointment; then I/We* will also attend the meeting later tonight; and David* and I* will be there to assist for the parade.
So Thanks To All* for Helping!
JoeyLee* "It's On!" :)

[joeylee]

Hi All*,
I just wanted to let you all know how sorry I am that I wasn't able to come back and help at the parade. The night before, at the meeting, I tried attending while just using a cane, instead of my wheelchair. It was a lot tougher on me than I imagined.

The two main diseases I have are both chronic pain syndromes; "flare-ups" are what can occur when any kind of trigger happens. Unfortunately, triggers can be just about anything, in this case I think it was all of the excitement with SO many people in one room, and the flare-ups are painful.

I would have needed to be either behind a table or off in some corner if I were to assist this morning. With the lack of time, I did not want to burden anyone just to accomodate me.

I DO Hope that in the coming weeks and months, as I fully expect Senator Clinton to end up as "The Nominee!", that I can be of some kind of help.

You All* did an Incredible job today! I watched on TV, I* wished I was there.
I just hope you all can understand and forgive me.

JoeyLee*

[Robin Orlowski]

I had a hard time accessing the original location of my state office only because it was not easily mass transit accessible.

I have epilepsy, and so I must use public transit in order to get where I go. I did not want to cross a multilane freeway on foot.

So I phonebanked from home--and ran the "People with Disabilities for Clinton group" and a personal blog focused on disability politics. I also attended community events which were easily mass transit accessible, explaining to organizers and attending campaign staff the sittuation. But I wanted to do more.

I have reccently learned they moved to an office which is centrally-located on several bus routes. People needing to use mass transit will be able to get to this new office easily.

I understood the campaign had to take the cheapest spacious office space which was availible to them at both of these time, even that earlier office was better than having no office space--and no presence--at all.

But after having previously promised that I would come in to help them, not being able to do that in person during my state's campaign was frustrating

And then it also accidentally overlooked the volunteer potential of a lot of other PWD's (of which there are a lot of) in Austin.

We are strong supporters of Hillary because of her history of working for and with our community. We have a very intimate relationship with public policy and public sector bureacracies which temporarily able-bodied people do not necessarily get to experience. It is imperative that we remain involved in this election cycle and this campaign.

[joeylee]

It is imperative that we remain involved in this election cycle and this campaign.

Hi All*,
I have an issue that I honestly feel needs to be addressed. This is not only for myself, but for the many, many others in like situations.

This afternoon, for one example; my All-Time Favorite President, Bill Clinton, will be in Wilkes-Barre, PA. This will mark the third or fourth trip by the Clinton's. Yet, it's also the most recent one that I have no way of attending.

I have RSD and AVN, two of the worst chronic pain diseases known to the AMA. I have a Morphine Pump, it's implanted in my abdomen; it runs 24/7, it cannot be seen, and as well, neither can my "disease(s)". Unless I am actually sitting in my wheelchair, no one would know I have any problem, unless they ask.

I've called the HQ here in Scranton, regarding my wanting to attend, but barely got to even mention my name before being told, "they have enough help down there". As much as I would have been willing to help, I would have been happy just TO attend.

What I need? I need to know if there IS a way for someone like me to attend an event, without having to stand in a 12 hour long line. I simply can NOT stand in line, so I am reaching out to ALL of you* for some help.

Here in PA, there are a LOT of those like myself, with disabilities. Unfortunately, Scranton is quite far behind in making downtown "accessible". I have been wanting to reach out to the entire "Center for Independent Living" (NEPA CIL), to announce the events, but more importantly, how they CAN attend. There are well over a thousand people just on one "email list" that I can reach out to. These people have not been reached by any one, as far as I know.

Someone Please Help?
Has anyone else addressed this somewhere?
JoeyLee*

[Robin Orlowski]

I know there is a club called the 504 democrats in New York. I haven't been able to find chapters of this club in other parts of the country.
http://the504democraticclub.org/

And there is a US Democrats Disability Issues national mailing list which is leanning VERY pro-Hillary. Perhaps there would be other people from the Scranton/PA area on it with area-specific info such as activities and resources. It's been my experience this list is VERY participant driven.

USDemocrat-DisabilityIssues@yahoogroups.com

[joeylee]

Hi Robin*,
Thanks for responding. I think my way too long of a post didn't make sense, as it was meant to. I already am on a very large list, one I would like to give info to, but, what I need to know is; at events, when scheduled, is there an entrance, a way for those that may not be able to physically sit/stand in line, to still attend the event? it's the problem I have personally.

I've missed at least three events so far, two of which really bummed me out to not attend. I understand that it might a bit much for certain people to ask for, but it's the only way that some can attend, make sense?

Thanks!
JoeyLee*

[Robin Orlowski]

Talk with the campaign office and event coordinators re: specific event accessibility. I'd also reccomend communicating before an event you'd like to attend. The farther in advance the concerns get effectively communicated, the better because it gives more time for everybody to plan an accessibility solution.

Perhaps you know of an alternative venue/know of somebody who knows an alternative venue? Plus, as an added bonus, it helps establish a suggester as a campaign resource.

At the events I've been attending, I've been sitting at the front--they did have seating. Flashing my bus pass which says disability also helps get through the crowd. The crowds can gather early if one of the Clintons happens to be a speaker, so arriving really early helps to guarantee a good spot too.

We are still working on access with some events though. I know again it's due to timing and who supports the campaign vs. what the campaigns can afford to pay for an event.

And since the Texas State HQ moved their offices to a more central location, I am going to go into their offices now. I'm really excited--after yes, having communicated my and other pwd's concerns!

[joeylee]

My sincere thanks Robin*, I'll definitely be making calls as soon as I hear of the event, and will pass along the information when I have it to the CIL follks. I apprecciate your input big time...

Many Thanks,
JoeyLee*

[Mom4Hillary]

JoeyLee:
My heart goes out to you for not being able to see Hillary when she was in Scranton. I, too, have to use a wheelchair when events call for standing in long lines... I don't share your particular physical circumstances, but do suffer from chronic sciatic/back pain as a result of traumatic injuries when hit by a drunk driver years ago. Fortunately, I was able to rent a wheelchair and have my husband and young daughters push me up a horrid hill (I was afraid my hubby was going to have a heart attack!) so that we could be with Hillary when she came to Millersville, PA, on Tuesday. Thankfully, I had attended a Lancaster4Hillary planning meeting last month, and was able to "name drop" to get volunteers to help us get in. The line went on for a literal three-quarter mile! Thank you, JoeyLee, for being willing to sacrifice your time and energy to speak for Hillary. You have the authority to speak about health-care issues that can persuade many voters. God bless you!

[joeylee]

Hi Kitty*,
I tried sending You* and also "Doug and Tracy" an Email, not sure if you had gotten it or not.
I spoke to Keith*, a colleague of mine that I was actually going to wait until I heard something back before contacting him. but, after watching/listening to Tim Russert on CNBC this morning, I have a feeling this may be much more important now, sooner rather than later. Tim, with all due respect (little) and Doris Kerns Goodwin* (spelling?), anyway, they were speaking of what each of the "potential candidates needed" in order to be more "rounded off". if you know what I mean?
In re: Obama? She stated that he needed to get "closer" to he average blue collar worker" (blah, blah blah) in re; McCain needs to get his "fact straight on the economy" yada yada

In regards to Senator Clinton*, she said how "she's already shown the tuff side, and how 'strong' she is", but, "needs to now show the softer side", much like she did when she got a bit choked up when speaking to the Veterans that had "returned injured, some without limbs".

Anyway, I called Keith*, he told me there is a VERY large group, not committed to any one candidate, and as well, another larger group, here in PA, called, I believe "The Deutsch Club", both being groups for those with disabilities, the first is one I am in. Although I am committed 150% to Senator Clinton*, I'd hate to see ANY other candidate get in touch with these groups before Senator Clinton* does.

I do have contact names and numbers for both, I just need someone to gt a hold of me. I tried calling the numbers I have, I didn't get through to anyone.

I apologize for the length of this. I hope that you all feel this is important. I am really starting to think it may just be "that one target" that just might "do it", as far as widening the "spread" here in PA. Maybe?

Most Sincerely,
Joey* :eek:

[owllwoman]

Joey, thanks for the link and Hillary needs to reach out to the disabled. I am disabled and that is one group of people who will vote the candidate that speaks for them. I hope she does reach out to disabled people. It will pay great rewards. Genia

[hills]

Hi Kitty*,
I tried sending You* and also "Doug and Tracy" an Email, not sure if you had gotten it or not.
I spoke to Keith*, a colleague of mine that I was actually going to wait until I heard something back before contacting him. but, after watching/listening to Tim Russert on CNBC this morning, I have a feeling this may be much more important now, sooner rather than later. Tim, with all due respect (little) and Doris Kerns Goodwin* (spelling?), anyway, they were speaking of what each of the "potential candidates needed" in order to be more "rounded off". if you know what I mean?
In re: Obama? She stated that he needed to get "closer" to he average blue collar worker" (blah, blah blah) in re; McCain needs to get his "fact straight on the economy" yada yada

In regards to Senator Clinton*, she said how "she's already shown the tuff side, and how 'strong' she is", but, "needs to now show the softer side", much like she did when she got a bit choked up when speaking to the Veterans that had "returned injured, some without limbs".

Anyway, I called Keith*, he told me there is a VERY large group, not committed to any one candidate, and as well, another larger group, here in PA, called, I believe "The Deutsch Club", both being groups for those with disabilities, the first is one I am in. Although I am committed 150% to Senator Clinton*, I'd hate to see ANY other candidate get in touch with these groups before Senator Clinton* does.

I do have contact names and numbers for both, I just need someone to gt a hold of me. I tried calling the numbers I have, I didn't get through to anyone.

I apologize for the length of this. I hope that you all feel this is important. I am really starting to think it may just be "that one target" that just might "do it", as far as widening the "spread" here in PA. Maybe?

Most Sincerely,
Joey* :eek:



Joey here you can find the addresses for the Campaign offices in PA. http://www.hillaryclinton.com/hq/pennsylvania/contact/

Here are phones numbers:

Pittsburgh
213 Smithfield Street
Second Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: 412-232-0151

Pennsylvania for Hillary Headquarters
520 North Delaware Avenue
Suite 202
Philadelphia, PA 19123
Phone: 215.625.0329
Fax: 215.625.0379

This is the direct email to the campaign in PA: pennsylvania@hillaryclinton.com

There is also this group of Hillary supporters you could contact: http://paresidentsforhillary.com/default.aspx

[joeylee]

Thank You Hills*!
I so truly apprecciate you posting these here. I apologize if I was a bit too bold in my post, I just get so frustrated, as do we all I am sure.

We do all have the very same objective - Our First Woman President*!

My Sincere Thanks,
Joey Lee*

[hills]

You are right. The main objective is to help Hillary win despite the many obstacles she faces and the haters who keep trying to getting her to quit.

[Robin Orlowski]

Joey, thanks for the link and Hillary needs to reach out to the disabled. I am disabled and that is one group of people who will vote the candidate that speaks for them. I hope she does reach out to disabled people. It will pay great rewards. Genia

She's definently doing this. ;)I had been drawn to her candidacy because she was the one who did door-to-dor research which was responsible for writing what became IDEA.

I and other people with disabilities never could have obtained special education without Hillary's community activism. This is a pretty substantive domestic policy accomplishment---which the press should give more attention to.

And she was the only candidate of today's remaining two who could be bothered to show up at a national forum being sponsored by a cross section of disability rights groups. She wanted our community to know she has worked for and will continue working with us for civil rights.

Tony Coelho, author of the ADA, Judith Heumann, former Dept of Education Assistant Secretary/veteran civil rights organizer and other disability rights leaders have endorsed Hillary because of her proven advocacy. She makes change because she knows that disability rights are civil rights.

Finally, she's not coddling the health care industry. Hillary wants us to be able to afford quality health care coverage. She is also upset that we are systematically denied coverage because of our 'pre-existing conditions'. She knows that real social justice does not ever fault us for being who we are.

[hills]

She's definently doing this. ;)I had been drawn to her candidacy because she was the one who did door-to-dor research which was responsible for writing what became IDEA.

I and other people with disabilities never could have obtained special education without Hillary's community activism. This is a pretty substantive domestic policy accomplishment---which the press should give more attention to.

And she was the only candidate of today's remaining two who could be bothered to show up at a national forum being sponsored by a cross section of disability rights groups. She wanted our community to know she has worked for and will continue working with us for civil rights.

Tony Coelho, author of the ADA, Judith Heumann, former Dept of Education Assistant Secretary/veteran civil rights organizer and other disability rights leaders have endorsed Hillary because of her proven advocacy. She makes change because she knows that disability rights are civil rights.

Finally, she's not coddling the health care industry. Hillary wants us to be able to afford quality health care coverage. She is also upset that we are systematically denied coverage because of our 'pre-existing conditions'. She knows that real social justice does not ever fault us for being who we are.

Can you write to PA, NC, IN local papers about everything you just stated. More people need to know this. There is so much about Hillary that people don't know. You can find the list here: http://hillaryresponders.com

[joeylee]

View Event Details & RSVP (http://www.hillaryclinton.com/actioncenter/event/view/?t=11613:0:1811925:tl6FrjLpFHJC)

[Kathy in NH]

Joey, please check this thread by Carla:
http://www.hillaryclintonforum.net/discussion/showthread.php?p=24568#post24568

I'm looking for activists who want to take leadership roles and help get out the vote for Hillary!

Love your energy and dedication ... hope you can get some help for your April event.
Kathy

[joeylee]

Thanks Kathy*,
I have joined, and as for the event, the date is only because I had to select a date as; I am in need of the following;
a commitment from Senator Clinton*, or President Clinton, or Chelsea* that would be willing to speak at such an event. I need help in getting those to her if you can? Or anyone?

JoeyLee* Fighting all the way!

[joeylee]

Hey Y'all*,
Well, I am on A track, finally!
I have a place set up, the Allies Rehabilitation Center/Hospital has said Yes to holding an event for HRC*, or someone VERY close, to speak to the People with Disabilities.
They have left the dates pretty much open to when the "Campaign" has the time to do it.
So, that is now where I am in desperate need, someone from the campaign, directly, needs to call me, PLEASE, so we can discuss times and dates.
The setting for the event is fairly large. I know Allied well, they have walls that can be moved, literally, to accommodate the showing.
I also have quite a "past" with the local press, all I need to do is make a phone call to the local TV stations, they'll be at my house within an hour to do an interview to "get the word out" further.
What's left, again, I need someone from the "Top" to commit to this event, give me something, please, to go on, dates, times, PEOPLE!

:-)
Love to All*, There IS HOPE, Trust Me*!
JoeyLee* :cool:

[Robin Orlowski]

Congrats about the Scranton event--and all of the hard work which goes into organizing it.

I also want to say thanks for organizing the Green Mountain site--which yes, I am joining.

[joeylee]

Thanks Robyn*,
Well, All is set now, all I need is The Person to give me some dates/times, and with a lot of Hope & Prayers, Hopefully Hillary herself;

Hey I think I like this Slogan: Hopefully Hillary*!

JoeyLee*

[joeylee]

Hey All*
Well, I guess all I can say is, "I tried". Any one on line that could possibly give this one last look at maybe give this one last sign of hope before I start calling Allied and the groups to say, "Thanks, but No Thanks"?

Joey Lee*
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/action...view/?id=11613 (http://www.hillaryclinton.com/actioncenter/event/view/?id=11613)

[samkm]

Joey, Please explain to them why they should support her whether or not she accepts an invitation to come to a non-fundraising event at this stage of fundraising focused campaign sprints in the middle of April-May-June jam-packed schedule. Please explain to them that most of these events are very large gatherings and small invited/ticketed sessions are bringing money to the campaign... and most of these settings are doing fundraising. That may help them understand and stay with Hillary. Whatever you do to keep their vote would be a positive. Since you have positioned them to favor her already, you are in a great place to influence their vote. Thanks.

[jgilmore]

Hi everyone--
You know I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and when I lost my job in July 06, I lost my health insurance. Within three months, I was in severe pain. I could not afford the medication I needed. Humira was around $1300 a month. I tried to get it free from the drug companies, but did not qualify because I made too much money in 2006. To apply I had to wait till January 2008. I have applied for the free program, but have yet to get anything. I applied for disability benefits in February 2007. I am still waiting on that. Meanwhile, I suffer. My story is true--and this is one of the reasons I so believe Hillary can make a difference. Some days I can't walk. Some days I am too tired to do anything. Some days I can't type because my fingers don't work. Our system of health care is a mess. I firmly believe we need Hillary,,,now more than ever.

[samkm]

jgilmore, sorry to hear your plight. RA is one of the most painful. (I dont know if Orencia works for it.. but check it out).. Thanks for sharing your confidence in Hillary. I know we can trust her to not overpromise and work hard to bring the most comprehensive and cohesive solutions. So, yes, we need her!

SudhaKM
- also suffering from Arthritis (midstage; one of the fingers is stiff).

[joeylee]

You are SO right "sud", and Yes, I will do everything I can to gain support for Senator Clinton. Am I disappointed in this event not happening, of course, but I also know that it's not "Her". I have received MANY emails from people extremely close to her, and I firmly believe that IF She has the time, She will gladly address the PWDs here in NEPA.

And, even if it doesn't pan out, it certainly will not alter my loyalty to Her*. She IS a Champion! She's a Champion of SO many issues that impact me in every personal way.

Unfortunately, I cannot hold such an event on my own, for many reasons. but I will do everything I personally can to generate support for Her*.

Joey Lee*

Hey "JG*"; There is an "Organization" that just may be able to help you, it's called CIL, Center for Independent living. I believe I have a link at my website to locate one near you. They help in SO many ways. http://www.joeylee.com/rsdresources.html or
http://www.nepacil.org/ (http://www.nepacil.org/)

[joeylee]

Hi Y'all,
The event I had intended on having, "PWD's being addressed", is starting to get some feedback on the main HillaryClinton.com website so for now, I am going to keep it "alive" as it may just end up taking place after all.

If anyone has any suggestions, feel free to post them here. If nothing else, I will do my best to gain the support of PWD's as I know Senator Clinton IS a Most Definite Champion on ALL issues most important to those disabled like myself, Social Security, Health-Care, and Medicare.

My Best To All*,
Joey Lee*

[joeylee]

Hi Again,
I just wanted to let you know that the event is now officially closed. I have to admit, I am SO disappointed, mostly with the local HQ here in Scranton, as they were of absolutely NO help. And just today, I finally got my first ever call back from them and they acted as though I hadn't told them anything. so, I forwarded them the last six emails I had already sent them, but which they said they had not received any. What a poor representatation. I am just so.. never mind, I apologize for "venting"...
Sincerely,
JoeyLee*

[samkm]

Joey, Like I said in my email to you, dont despair. To have hopes like this is to set ourselves up for disappointment. Now you were trying to do something at a time when the focus is on fundraising and large constituencies that are highly diverse. I hope you can find a way to participate in one of the sessions that is planned.
I am surprised they called you. I have made, say >5k phonecalls for the campaign. It is always me calling them and not the other way. The challenge they are up against is quite huge.

So, let's stick together and keep our spirits up and know that she truly cares. I suggest you visit www.thehillaryiknow.com - the person they talk about is indeed very genuine. Thanks.

[joeylee]

To anyone that may think my loyalty is now elsewhere, I apologize, but it's where it's always been, in Senator Clinton*, period. I DO know that She*, and ONLY She*, is a Champion for Me, for those like Me, and for all People with Disabilities. That is a fact and one I will carry with my loudest voice, as I have been.

My disappointment is in others who are acting as "representatives" when they are no more so than myself. The call I received was not by anyone from the "campaign", my God, I would be high as a Cloud, no matter what the response was. This was a Volunteer, acting as more, at first though, it was after I had already given up 99% on th event, this person gave it life again, or so I was made to think. Then, a lot of fluff and wallah, here we are five days before I finally get to vote for The Champion of ALL Champions and I'm dropped by someone that never had the right to "lift up my expectations" to begin with.

So Please, understand, my frustration is only that I cannot share what I know to be SO Vitally important with MANY people that have yet to make a decision. It is for Them I am upset/frustrated. I will do ALL I can to Yell from every roof I can climb on, to gain Support for ONE person, Senator Hillary Clinton*, period, and NO ONE ELSE.

JoeyLee*
http://www.joeylee.com

[Amy Dugan]

that stinks

[joeylee]

Hi Amy*,
I agree, IT does stink. I also know that if it were put to Senator Clinton herself, she'd jump at the opportunity to speak to this type of event. The only downside I see now is that yesterday, Ethel Shriver Kennedy was out door-to-door talking to people with disabilities at, I believe, McDade Apartments, or another development..

Either way, it was exactly what I wanted to avoid, in him getting to this targeted group where Senator Clinton IS a Super Champion in, as I know her to be. I just Pray that those that might not follow this stuff quite as much as I do, get a chance to see the Senator in the way we do.

I'll do what I can in the meantime to tell what I know to be to whomever will listen. By the way, for anyone that may not have yet, I still have a poll at my website at http://www.joeylee.com (http://www.joeylee.com)

JoeyLee*

[hills]

If that place you had booked is still available I suggest that you call the HQs again. Senator Clinton hasn't made many plans for Monday and you know sometimes the campaign makes last minutes arrangements. So get on the phone and lobby them to come.

[joeylee]

I'm game! I would absolutely love to still hold the event as planned, I am unsure if I could secure the same place, but there are others, like the Center for Independent Living (NEPA CIL), it's smaller, more quaint, but I am 99% sure they would embrace the idea. I do know that Senator Clinton will be here in the morning on Monday, she is doing a rally at the Scranton Cultural Society. It's at 9AM, and I would go, but I have an 8:30 Dr. appointment that I cannot change even though I'll be back by 9:30.
If you can help in ANY way, please do let me know.
Joey Lee* :eek: