CALL TO ACTION 2008 #7 (September 21, 2008)
from Pat Smith, President, Lyme Disease Association, Inc. (LDA)

Lyme & Tick-Borne Disease Prevention Education & Research Act
of 2007 S-1708 / HR-741

Update: I am as surprised having to put this Update out, as you are to get one, especially so close after Update #6. However, on Friday, September 19, 2008, the LDA was informed there could be some serious action occurring this week in DC regarding our continuing Lyme disease agenda. In light of this announcement, we may need to call on you for assistance.

As you know, several entities have been pursuing different ways to break the blockade that has been erected due to IDSA's interference. There is not a 100% guarantee that an action will occur, but indications are that something might be happening before the close of the Congressional session, which I have mentioned before, is currently scheduled for this Friday, September 26.

If action takes place, we may need your help quickly, or not. I have no way of knowing at this time who or what will be needed. As I mentioned in Update #6, there is still a good possibility that Congress will have a Lame duck session, i.e., continue its session after the election. That means if action is begun now, it could be completed then.

If this plan becomes finalized and I am able to let you know details, I will do so. Let us hope our long years of hard work may come to fruition before the end of this year.

Congress has its own schedule to adhere to and does not wait for anyone, as it has many agendas. As you know, the current economic situation has caused Congress to be working furiously to address that situation as a priority. I am sure they will be burning the midnight oil to resolve those issues this week before adjournment, plus I understand they have not yet voted on some very significant appropriations issues which need to be completed. But we do have some champions there working hard for us. It will be a "hairy" week there in DC for Congress, but we need to keep positive thoughts and be prepared to act at a moment's notice.

Thanks.

Pat Smith
President
Lyme Disease Association, Inc.
PO Box 1438
Jackson, NJ 08527
888-366-6611 information line
732 938-7215 fax
www.LymeDiseaseAssociation.org