Do you have tips or advice on making advocacy your career?
Our community would love to hear from you! Please share your experiences on how you have turned advocacy into your career or side gig.
Throughout my life, it’s happened that people have been brought into my life who needed help, understanding, care, support, trust, acceptance and belief because of something that happened to them. Periodically, these people have been brought into my life. I’m not sure why, yet they have said they feel they could trust me. If I hear of someone who is struggling, I might take them under my wing, until they are comfortable enough to talk with a counselor or other.
My life has been far from perfect, but if I can help one person it’s worth it.
~JanetI will advocate, from home as long as I am able.
One of the most important aspects in my journey, has been being authentic. As a person that public speaking did not come naturally I, leaned into that as I found myself moving from speaking to a few people in my local hospital, to speaking at an international event. Being authentic, being vulnerable, sharing my story, and offering solutions has made a difference. Of course as a white male I am aware of the privilege a have that more vulnerable people do not.
, did you find the transition to larger groups difficult? How did you navigate that? - Warmly, Donna (Team Member) 
I completely agree that authenticity is the key. Sharing your journey without being specific has been so profound to me. I try to gauge the responses of others to determine where to go. I've noticed that if I stick to "my chronic condition," that is usually enough without me diving into what specific chronic condition I have. Since focusing on AI and chronic medical conditions, I have found two elements of my story get the most attention. First, how my neurologist nearly killed me by overdosing me on a medication. Second, how AI can help prevent issues like that from ever happening again. Being authentic and vulnerable while also focusing on solutions seems to have broadened my platform. I also find that telling people I've spent three months in hospital over the past three years also tends to build credibility with patients and HCPs.
Network, network, network! The more people you know the better. You never know who can help you spread your message and who you'll meet. Meet people OUTSIDE of your condition area so you can learn what they're doing. Don't recreate the wheel! I've seen so many patient leaders pick up an idea from another condition area and run with it in their own!
I agree with this, Julie. I feel like it's important to know not only more people online but also your local community and the leaders. We just had major changes in the town where I live, for the mayor and other pertinent people here. How do I go about introducing myself to them? I'm sure having my Leadership Training Program Certificate is something I should introduce. Do you have more tips on how I should go about telling my local community about my experience and what I want to bring to not just Facebook and other online communities, but also those who are right here in my hometown?
I know somehow I want to help people avoid the pitfalls I've experienced in my sudden health journey.
Mary, everyone's journey is different, but knowing things to avoid is so very helpful! Thank you for being willing to be vulnerable. - Warmly, Donna (Team Member)
