Way back in 1979, while in just my second year of practice, I attended my very first ACA National Chiropractic Legislative Conference (NCLC). It was my first trip to Washington, D.C., and I still remember being awed by the sights and sounds of our nation's capital. I will also never forget having my photograph taken with my personal hero, Senator Bob Dole, who back then was only known to those of us who lived in Kansas.
During the intervening years, I estimate that I have attended over 20 NCLCs, and every year I have come away more impressed and more proud of this profession. Well, as detailed by this publication in the April 23, 2005 issue [see "Chiropractic on Capitol Hill"], I can attest that 2005 was no exception!
From Navy admirals, to a former cabinet secretary, to high-profile U.S. senators, speaker after speaker made glowing remarks about the chiropractic profession. After listening to them say so many wonderful things about the chiropractic profession, I realized how far we have come in the last quarter of a century. Had someone told me back in 1979 that legislators and key policy-makers would someday believe that chiropractors are competent and well-trained ... that wellness needs to be promoted ... that doctors of chiropractic are part of the health care team ... that chiropractors are helping ensure that veterans get the care they need - I would have never believed them!
If you have never attended the ACA National Chiropractic Legislative Conference, you owe it to yourself to do so. You will enjoy a tremendous three-day event and you will come home very proud that your profession has finally been "discovered."
| Author's note: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions, policies or positions of the American Chiropractic Association. |
James Edwards, DC
Treasurer and District VI Governor
American Chiropractic Association
Austin, Texas
jamesedwards@jamesedwards.com
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