The President of the United States, Joe Biden, delivered his State of the Union Address on Monday, March 1, 2022. In the speech, CLL Society is overjoyed to see that the immunocompromised community was explicitly mentioned by the President in relation to ensuring the entire United States public is protected against the risk of contracting and preventing severe COVID-19. To see the immunocompromised community recognized in this esteemed public forum is truly remarkable.
President Biden’s direct quote from the State of the Union is as follows:
“And we’re launching the “Test to Treat” initiative so people can get tested at a pharmacy, and if they’re positive, receive antiviral pills on the spot at no cost.
If you’re immunocompromised or have some other vulnerability, we have treatments and free high-quality masks.
We’re leaving no one behind or ignoring anyone’s needs as we move forward.”
-President Joe Biden, State of The Union Address March 2022
CLL Society has been working tirelessly over the past two years to increase awareness of the needs of the immunocompromised, including those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). After two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, those needs are finally starting to be met with the President guaranteeing resources such as masks, vaccines, monoclonal antibody treatments for both prevention and early treatment, antiviral therapies, and tests are being made available. CLL Society would like to think that in some small way our advocacy efforts are now being heard at the highest level and playing a role in decisions being made.
Here is a link to the full State of the Union Address.
CLL Society is incredibly appreciative that the needs of the immunocompromised community are being recognized and met by the President. It’s looking like those who are immunocompromised will be left behind no longer; their needs will no longer be an afterthought.
CLL Society is a nonprofit organization and welcomes donations in support of its mission to addresses the unmet needs of the chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) community through patient education, advocacy, support, and research. Your support is greatly appreciated, please consider making a donation today.
