Polio Survivors Take Fight To Canberra
— PRESS RELEASE —
On Wednesday 29th October, at 9:30 am, Australia’s polio survivors take their fight to Canberra to remind Parliament that “We’re Still Here!” and call on the government to act NOW to support those living with polio’s legacy.
Despite 7 years of lobbying by Polio Australia, and Health & Ageing Committee Round Table Recommendations to the Federal Parliament in 2012, there is yet no commitment to provide the urgently needed federal funding for specific health, self-management, and support services so urgently required for Australia’s polio survivors. Dozens of polio survivors will raise their voices again for the Recommendations to be implemented. Many will be meeting with their local members to urge for a commitment to fund support for specific post-polio services.
The legacy of polio is being felt by up to 400,000 Australians who survived this dreadful disease of the last century. They are now facing a new debilitating health battle with the Late Effects of Polio and Post-Polio Syndrome. These forgotten survivors continue to experience chronic and costly health problems today.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: Wednesday, 29 October at 9:30 am
Where: Great Hall, Parliament Canberra, on the marble steps in the reception area
What: Polio survivors will be wearing “We’re Still Here!” T-shirts.
INTERVIEWS / PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: Wednesday, 29 October at 10:15 – 11:15 am
Where: Sir Richard Baker Room, Level 2, Parliament House, off the Members and Guests Dining Room
What: Polio survivors will be available for media interviews prior to the launch of the “Late Effects of Polio: Managing Muscles And Mobility” clinical practice resource for health professionals, and during the “Polio Timeline” exhibit. Co-launched by Mark Coulton MP, Chief Whip, National Party and the Hon Catherine King MP, Shadow Minister for Health.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kristy Rackham, RN – Health Education & Public Relations Consultant – Polio Australia
Ph: 0487 769 629 / E: kristy@polioaustralia.org.au
Website: www.polioaustralia.org.au / www.stillhere.org.au