Editor:

I’m writing to bring awareness to a lifesaving effort, and to ask for help.

On April 28 and 29, American Heart Association-funded scientists and other volunteers met with members of Congress in Washington, D.C., to lobby for funding. Specifically, American Heart Association advocates asked lawmakers to commit dollars to researchers, who are working to understand – and end – cardiovascular diseases.

The American Heart Association is doing its part, providing Maine scientists with more than $375,000 annually to fight heart disease and stroke.

This funding is critical in a time when fewer resources are available for biomedical research to support the discoveries that come with scientific investigation.Research is necessary for the development of new therapies and treatment that directly impact patient care.

An investment in biomedical research pays off in improvements in health and quality of care, as well as supports the training and education of future scientists.

But we need the government to commit more dollars to research, too. That’s where you come in. You can help just by visiting www.yourethecure.org.