There is strong evidence that fast treatment of stroke leads to better recovery and fewer complications. Data demonstrates clearly that complications from stroke shorten life span. Wouldn't you want to ensure that your health care system has all the needed resources, specialists, and tools to provide the best standard of care in a fast and effective manner?

A strong telemedicine network can help close important gaps. Telestroke provides a mechanism for faster diagnosis, evaluating treatment options, and other critical elements of the process in the medical community. Click here to help make your legislators aware of the need!

Minimizing the barriers to fast and comprehensive stroke treatment would be a strong investment in our citizens' health. We can't afford to overlook any option to help change these outcomes.

Take a moment now and urge priority consideration for this life-saving service.

As early as today (Wednesday), the Senate will again try to pass critical Medicaid support for people with disabilities. If the Senate does not approve additional federal Medicaid funding to the states, they will be forced to cut benefits and services for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Every message from Easter Seals supporters like you will make a difference.

Act now! Urge your Senators to protect people with disabilities by voting to extend this enhanced federal Medicaid funding!

Medicaid is a lifeline for children and adults with disabilities. Because of the health care they get through the program, they are able to be successful in school, keep a job and live independent lives.

Thanks to Medicaid, a child with autism can get the speech therapy he needs, a teenager with spina bifida can get the wheelchair she needs to use to get around school, and an older person living with a chronic illness can see his doctor. Medicaid exists to help people who can't otherwise afford it, pay for critical services like these.

But state budgets have been squeezed by this recession. With less tax revenue coming in, they're facing the prospect of devastating cutbacks. They need help filling the gaps and keeping important programs afloat. They're counting on support from Washington.

The federal government has always shared the financial responsibility for Medicaid. With so many people in need and the states so strapped for cash, this is the moment for the Senate to step up with additional funding.

When enough of their constituents weigh in, elected officials listen. That's why we can't let Senators cast their vote again without hearing our voices. But it has to happen fast. Write your Senators and let your opinion be heard before it's too late.

Write your Senators and let your opinion be heard before it's too late.

I really appreciate your help on this critically important issue. Dedicated Easter Seals supporters like you are the difference between winning and losing these legislative battles.