Over the past couple of years in our publications we have been noting how
we believe the March of Dimes has abandoned us and stolen our heritage.
During that time we have received many letters on the topic most in
agreement with us. Those who did not agree stated the March of Dimes:-
1. Is beginning to understand Post-Polio Syndrome problems and are
'considering a change'.
2. They help our PPG with our newsletter expenses.
Now, in regard to the first item above, we note a two page attack in the Polio Heroes of Tennessee newsletter against the March of Dimes by Nickie Lancaster their Coordinator. Also, a reprint of the article in the Appalachian PPSG Newsletter (NE Tenn. and SW Virginia) and who knows how many other groups will also copy the article.
Key to Nickie's remarks were, *My sainted grandmother always told me, "You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar", and being a true daughter of the South, I try. There are some things you just can't keep sugar coating.* Enough said.
In addition, we now have received a report that a group of doctors formed a new polio foundation led by Drs. Halstead, Diamond, Alba and others. One of the first things they did was have a meeting with the March of Dimes.
After the meeting we have been informed by their internet representative that an attorney on the Board...went to NYS Capitol in Albany. The attorney there obtained copies of legal and corporation documents relating to the March of Dimes and their change of direction from 'polio' to 'birth defects' for review.
Well, we guess you can draw your own conclusion about the meeting and their opinions considering the drive to a Albany from NY is a few hundred miles give or take. We wish them luck and will support their efforts as we do all actions on behalf of the Polio Movement.
I guess the prior information takes care of the Number 1 statement in regard to the March of Dimes 'considering a change'.
Now in response to the noted statement Number 2 wherein the March of Dimes helps us we always ask the rhetorical question, "Do you help them?" Of course, the answer is usually yes, our Polio Group helps them during their fund raising drives. So, it is a mutual exchange and in all probability the March of Dimes receives the better of the deal in the long run.
What does the March of Dimes receive. They receive Polio's name recognition. Ask anyone on the street who helps Polio's and what answer do you usually receive. The usual answer is the March of Dimes. Well, the March of Dimes name belongs to the Polio Movement and does not belong to any other group no matter how important they or their cause is. The March of Dimes name belongs to us. No ifs ands or buts.
Now, we do not need the March of Dimes petty cash for printing, etc. We need dollars, millions of them for polio research and for polio individuals with special problems. That money is probably available, for it was given to the March of Dimes in grants, wills and trusts for Polio's and Polio work. In all probability it is still there, hidden and accruing interest. Just sitting there. Well, lets reclaim it. Let the legal action begin. Let's all help.
What can we do now until the legal action begins. Simply, quit supporting the March of Dimes.
Make it your business to tell your friends and family to do the same and to insure that the March of Dimes is not in their "Wills".
Secondly, we must begin to break the Name recognition that the March of Dimes has with Polio and Polio's. That means that all our Polio organizations must stop associating with the March of Dimes in every and any way. We must break all contact with the March of Dimes.
Above all, if we are receiving funds from the March of Dimes for Postage/printing etc. we must stop receiving that petty cash. And those who are receiving this funding must officially tell them why and send copies to all interested Polio and non-polio groups.
Should any Polio group find it impossible to break their relationship with the March of Dimes send us a letter. Maybe we can find a way to help you.