We need everyone’s help to protect critical funding for desmoid tumor research. This call-to-action is for anyone reading this message, whether you are a patient, clinician, or caregiver.
A few weeks ago, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced a major change: they plan to reduce the rate for “indirect costs” to 15% for all new and existing NIH contract awards. Indirect costs are essential to supporting the infrastructure that enables scientific research.
The decision has already been met with strong opposition, and multiple states have filed lawsuits challenging this decision. In addition, we have now heard from a number of the DTRF advisory board members asking for our help in mobilizing the desmoid tumor community. If this policy change is enacted, it can directly affect researchers studying desmoid tumors and it can significantly hinder the progress of our research efforts.
Please urge your Senators and members of Congress to oppose the recent Executive Order to cut NIH indirect costs.
The NIH is the world’s largest funder of biomedical research. If enacted, the Executive Order would cut tens of millions of dollars in essential support services to scientists and clinicians who are driving scientific discovery.
Congress needs to hear from you TODAY on how cuts to NIH research impact you.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
- Find contact information for your Members of Congress
- Call them directly.
- Use the script below to make your request:
“Hello, my name is [YOUR NAME], and I am a rare disease advocate from [YOUR CITY, STATE]. I am deeply concerned about the decision to cut NIH funding, which will severely impact rare disease research and would impact my [SELF, CHILD, FAMILY MEMBER, FRIEND, ETC].
These cuts will prevent the research that could lead to treatments and a cure for Americans living with desmoid tumors. I urge [SENATOR/REPRESENTATIVE NAME] to support full NIH funding and reverse these harmful cuts. Thank you for your time and commitment to medical research.“
You can also download the 5 Calls app to make this call-to-action even easier. Follow the steps on the app to connect with your Senators and members of Congress.
Every call makes a difference! Please share this message with your networks and help us ensure that desmoid tumor research continues to receive the support it needs.
In the meantime, we will remain committed to our work of accelerating desmoid tumor research and supporting the patient community.
