Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Here it comes...

Sorry for the quietness. I've been hiding under this...

Press Advisory

Coalition to Update Utah Insurance Coverage for Autism

Legislators, business leaders and families join together in announcing a bill to update medical insurance to eliminate discrimination of and provide coverage for children with autism. “Clay’s Law”, named after a child who, after successful treatment, no longer has autism, will help countless children and save taxpayers in Utah millions of dollars.

When: Thursday, January 22, 2009 11 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Where: Utah State Capitol Rotunda

Who: Sen. Howard Stephenson (Utah Senate District 11), Rep. Roger Barrus (Utah House District 18), Fraser Bullock (former CEO 2002 Olympic Winter Games - in absentia), Paul Carbone, MD (Intermountain Pediatric Society), Steve Michalski (autism specialist), Leeann Whiffen (Clay’s mother), Brittany Recalde (parent), and Holly Rechis (parent).

Ample space will be available for photography (still and video) and audio recording. A press Question & Answer session will follow the brief comments. If you would like to make arrangements to interview any of the speakers listed above, or want more information about the Utah Autism Coalition, please call Leeann Whiffen.

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13 comments:

Michelle said...

Oh, wow!!! Good for you and all who worked so hard for this. You are such an inspiration to parents facing the same situations. They are lucky to have you on their side! Congratulations!!!

Melissa said...

That-a-girl!! Kick some Legislature butt!!

Elder Quinn Kay Longhurst said...

Way to go! Good luck on Thursday. This could be such an amazing achievement if it goes through. I've got my finger, toes and eyes crossed.

Soccer Mom said...

Congrats! Way too go! I hope you kick some but and get the law passed! We will pray for all of you!

Cindy G said...

Good luck. I will think about you all day...what an amazing woman you are. I am so fortunate to know you!

Camille said...

Clay, has a pretty special mom! I am with Cindy, I feel fortunate to know you! Way to go!

Leeann said...

Wow, you all are the best! I'm so fortunate to have such great friends. Your support means so much to me. There have been so many families working on this bill. Brittany, my main accomplice, is pregnant and due in April yet she and I stay up late together emailing back and forth on details that make my eyes cross. I've met some pretty amazing people along the way - great examples of tenacity and determination. Our ultimate goal is to get this passed, but the experiences I've gained have been so rewarding already. Thanks again, ladies!

harriet said...

Clay's law -- how wonderful. Brings tears to the eyes. Best of all possible luck on Thurs.

Rhonda and Todd Petersen said...

Leeann Whiffen!!! Oh, I wish I could be there, I am so proud of you. I would take my camera and take pictures and clap (if it is appropriate.) I remember when all of his started. I can't believe the strength you have for all of this. You are amazing!! Keep us all posted.

Amy said...

Hey, let us know what happens. Hopefully after it passes, they'll make it a nation wide thing.

Holly said...

Wow - I wish I'd have read about this yesterday. Now it's all said and done but I'm waiting to hear what happens along with everyone else. Lots of prayers from us.

Keri said...

All I can say is WOW! You truely are an amazing woman. Congrats on your accomplishment!

Dadof6Autistickids said...

Thanks for your hard work Leeann! I was glad to see that we had some good press coverage, especially the interview on channel 4 news (http://www.abc4.com/mediacenter/local.aspx).