I just discovered that it is Advocating for Another Month, and what perfect timing. I’ve been thinking about this very topic for the past several days.
I have long been called to advocate for children, and this past Sunday I discovered I also need to advocate for older people. Both of these groups often cannot advocate for themselves. I get kind of bent out of shape when I think about people being treated unfairly, or being abused in one way or another – just because they are young or old and don’t (or can’t) stand up for themselves.
As diabetes educators we advocate for our patients and sometimes for the greater population of people with diabetes. There are many advocacy activities we take part in, from simply educating patients, to marching on capitol hills.
Earlier this week I had another interesting discovery. During a live twitter chat, I was afraid/embarrassed to ask the host to clarify a question. And yet, as an educator (both in diabetes education and in the classroom), I truly believe that there are no stupid questions. I always encourage patients and students to ask any and every question. When another participant in the chat asked my question, I was so relieved. I (we all) need to remember that this is probably true most, if not all of the time. If I just go ahead and ask the question(s), others will not only be relieved, but they’ll get their questions answered too!
How do you advocate for yourself and others?