Since 1988 the cases of polio worldwide have decreased by 99%. I can still remember my vaccination against polio because it is the one that left a mark. Although that mark faded long ago and the disease has been eradicated in the United States, there are still three countries battling this disease: Nigeria, Pakistan and Afghanistan. When I was vaccinated my mother's insurance covered the cost but in these nations, access to the polio vaccine is scarce. And amazingly, the cost of the vaccine is only $1!
We can help! Right now, shot@life has a campaign to raise $40,000 for the polio vaccine. That equates to 40,000 vaccines for children in these nations and brings us that much closer to eradicating this disease forever! If you are so inclined, you can donate - a donation of $50 will save the lives of 50 children. Of course, a donation of any amount will be greatly appreciated!
You can also use the power of social media to help raise awareness about the need for polio vaccinations. Today from 1pm - 2pm E.S.T a twitter party will be held to discuss this issue. Simply use the hashtag #UNDay to join the conversation.
A contingency of Shot @ Life champions is touching down in Uganda today to directly see the impact that vaccines have in this country. You can follow their experience by following them on twitter.
Uganda Trip Champions:
LaShaun Martin: @OfficialShootie, @LashaunMartin
Cynthia Changyit Levin: @CCyLevin, @RESULTSChicago
Jenny Eckton: @formerlyphread
Felisa Hilbert: @FelisaHilbert
Nancy Jones: @NancyJo74469819, @womenvolunteers, @GFWCPR, @GFWCHQ
Jennifer Burden: @JenniferBurden, @WorldMomsBlog
Stephanie Geddes: @annegeddestweet
Julie Marsh: @thejuliemarsh, @JulieMarshCMP
Ilina Ewen: @IlinaP
Donations, tweets, and sharing the info with your friends all will help give children worldwide a Shot @ Life. It is my hope that you join the movement!
