By popular demand… press release:

January 24th, 2013 by Amy Basken

Posted in Advocacy, Awareness, Education

Thanks to Mended Little Hearts for the original template: I modified it a bit for CHD Awareness week. As I was typing this, it also dawned on me that you should contact your governor or city official’s office and see if they will submit the press release. Much more likely to be picked up. 🙂

Include things like:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts:
Amy Basken
Congenital Heart Disease Advocate (If you have an official title, I would use it)
363 Park Avenue
Prairie du Sac, WI 53578 (I love mail!)
(608) 370-3739
chdadvocacy@gmail.com

Governor Proclaims February 7-14 Congenital Heart Defects Awareness Week.

Madison, WI, February 1, 2013. Governor Scott Walker once again signed a public proclamation recognizing the number 1 birth defect in America, affecting 1 in 110 babies born each year. Congenital heart defects (CHD) is the leading cause of birth defect related death in infants and CHD claims the lives of twice as many children as all forms of childhood cancer combined. 10% of those born with a CHD will not live to see their 18th birthday. Even in adulthood, CHD remains a leading cause of death and is the number one heart problem for pregnant women.

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week is designed to bring attention to this serious issue. Children diagnosed with a heart defect can have astonishing needs throughout their lifetime, ranging from multiple invasive procedures such as open-heart surgery to daily therapies for breathing and physical rehabilitation. This takes a toll on school and work life, as well. CHD is a costly diagnosis both emotionally and financially.

[Insert personal story here if appropriate – keep it short!]

For more information about Congenital Heart Awareness Week and how to get involved with CHD Advocacy, visit www.chdadvocacy.com [change to your organization and your website]

About Amy: [you or your organizations] Amy is a tireless advocate whose youngest of 3 was born with a serious heart defect over 8 years ago. Amy works to use her experience to ensure that those living with CHD have a long and healthy life. Amy has the privilege to work with lawmakers, federal agencies and major health organizations to create, fund and implement public policy related to CHD. She also works to educate and motivate advocates to share their story to make a difference.
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