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Advocating for Liver Health at the 2025 Summit in Washington, DC

On April 29 and 30, 2025, the American Liver Foundation (ALF) will hold its annual Liver Life Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., gathering a diverse group of patients, caregivers, and family members affected by liver disease from across the United States. This year's summit will focus on advancing ALF's legislative priorities, emphasizing the urgent need for increased federal support in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of liver disease, a condition that impacts an estimated 80 to 100 million Americans.

With liver disease being one of the most commonly overlooked chronic diseases, the ALF seeks to elevate awareness regarding its consequences by urging legislators to adopt patient-centered policies. "The ALF is home to a passionate community of Liver Life Advocates, who are determined to make a significant difference for individuals living with liver disease," stated Lorraine Stiehl, the CEO of American Liver Foundation.

The summit's agenda includes a series of discussions aimed at amplifying patient voices in legislative dialogues. The advocates will encourage lawmakers to focus on specific policy initiatives that would lead to better outcomes for those living with liver disease. The advocacy points are especially crucial given the current gaps in funding and resources compared to other chronic illnesses.

Key Legislative Priorities

During the summit, advocates will call for Congress to:

• - Increase funding for Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) research and educational initiatives.
• - Enhance liver disease surveillance and prevention programs through the CDC.
• - Finalize coverage for anti-obesity medications under Medicare Part D to improve health outcomes.
• - Support essential legislation such as the Living Donor Protection Act and the Safe Step Act.
• - Improve access to liver disease treatments while reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Highlighting the importance of personal stories, 2024 Miss Tennessee, Carley Jaymes Vogel, shared her personal journey with liver disease. Diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis at the tender age of twelve, Vogel spent weeks on a hospital transplant floor, gaining firsthand insight into the significance of organ donation and advocacy efforts aimed at legislative change. She stated, "I'm so honored to participate in ALF's Summit because I truly believe in ALF's mission and want to contribute to improving the lives of those living with liver disease, just like me."

The summit will also feature a special dinner on April 29 to honor members of Congress who have notably contributed to liver health initiatives and to recognize advocates who have tirelessly worked to promote ALF's legislative agenda.

On April 30, the Liver Life Advocates will navigate Capitol Hill to meet with lawmakers personally, advocating for the proposed legislative priorities. Don Melillo, a liver transplant survivor and advocate, expressed the importance of these efforts: "As someone who has experienced liver cancer and received a transplant, I understand the severity of a liver disease diagnosis. I'm thankful for my health and eager to join the ALF in Washington, DC to champion the cause of the 80-100 million Americans dealing with liver disease, a true public health crisis."

The American Liver Foundation invites individuals to take part in this vital advocacy work and join as Liver Life Advocates. To learn more about how to advocate, visit liverfoundation.org/advocacy.

About the American Liver Foundation

The ALF is a national community that unites patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals committed to enhancing liver health. With its resources and advocacy efforts, the foundation serves as a beacon for the estimated 100 million Americans facing liver disease. The organization's mission includes funding research, providing education, and increasing awareness about liver health and disease prevention. For more information, visit www.liverfoundation.org or contact them at 1-800-GO-LIVER (800-465-4837).