I received the following email tonight from our autism support group advocate on base.

As a parent who has had a VERY difficult time getting services for my son, so much so that I gave up on trying to get them, please understand that we need your help! Our spouses would give their lives for you. Would you give a phone call for our children?

Thank you!!

Sallie

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Dear Friends, Family, and Fellow Autism Advocates,

Today the Senate Defense Bill will likely wrap up and go to the floor for a vote.  Unfortunately, the autism amendment to recognize the medical necessity of effective autism treatments and provide appropriate coverage of treatment services under the TRICARE basic program was rejected by the Senate Armed Services Committee.  Military families impacted by autism need your immediate help and action today.

1.  Please contact Senator Levin and Senator McCain and ask they allow the Gillibrand autism amendment, amendment #1786, be voted on.  Phone numbers below.

Senator Levin 202-224-6221

Senator McCain 202-224-2235

Not sure what to say?  Below is a sample statement for your consideration:

“I appreciate the service and sacrifice our military families have given this country.  Military families with autism face extraordinary challenges and need the Senator’s help.  I ask the Senator allow the Gillibrand autism amendment to the NDAA, amendment #1786, be voted on.”

2.  Call your Senator and ask they support and sign on to the Gillibrand autism amendment to the NDAA, amendment #1786.  

Not sure who your Senator is or how to contact them?  Simply click on the below link.

http://www.autismvotes.org/c.frKNI3PCImE/b.3932687/siteapps/advocacy/search.aspx

3. Please forward this E-mail to your friends and family and ask for their support and immediate action.

Attached is a copy (please let me know if you have problems opening the pdf file) of the Gillibrand autism amendment (amendment #1786) for your review.  This important legislation will provide access to the much needed medical services and treatments military children with autism require.  Our military families shoulder significant responsibilities today.  We have a moral obligation to provide our military families with the medical care they require.  I ask for your help.

On behalf of the thousands of military families impacted by Autism, I thank you for your action in support of our special children.

Semper Fi!!

In Christ,

Sallie