Rocky Mountain Activist

What is Planned Parenthood?

2010-07-28T15:44:00.003-06:00

I have been so fortunate to have the opportunity to work at Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains. I wanted to write one last piece as a farewell to the amazing opportunity I was fortunate enough to have before I embark on my next adventure. But what to say? And then, at dinner the other night, as my dear boyfriend listened to me rant and rave about how angry the ridiculous statements and claims made by our opposing forces made me, inspiration struck.

Perhaps the reason those involved with PPRM are so misunderstood, is that many people have simply been misinformed as to what Planned Parenthood is. People who oppose Planned Parenthood have claims which are so ludicrous that this is the only logical conclusion I can reach. As my final farewell and thank you to this wonderful organization, I would like to do my best to clear up a few of the misconceptions some people have about Planned Parenthood. Maybe this will help bring about some newfound understanding and respect for this amazing institution. And if not, then maybe I can just use some large words and sound like somewhat of an intellectual.

There are many rumors about Planned Parenthood and its affiliates, but since I do not care to repeat false claims, let us focus on and identify a few things that we are. Planned Parenthood is first and foremost a health center providing affordable health care to women, men, and teens. While this is not an exhaustive list by any means, some of the health services for men include: routine physical exams, colon cancer screenings, STD screening, erectile dysfunction services, testicular cancer screenings, prostate cancer screenings, and check-ups for reproductive and sexual health problems. Some services provided to women are annual well-woman exams, breast exams, cervical cancer screenings, fibroids testing and treatment, mammogram referrals, hormone replacement therapy, and menopause / midlife services. Planned Parenthood also provides general health care services such as anemia testing, cholesterol screening, diabetes screening, the flu vaccination, high blood pressure screening, thyroid screening, tetanus vaccinations, and employment or sports required physicals. In 2009 alone, more than 123,000 individuals visited our 29 health centers in Colorado, Wyoming, Southern Nevada, and New Mexico. 345,411 various kinds of birth control were administered, 17,455 annual exams and screenings for breast and cervical cancer were performed, 51,729 STD tests were taken, and 8,735 condoms were given out. Those numbers tell me that people need, want, and most importantly, use the services provided by Planned Parenthood.

Planned Parenthood does more than any other organization in the Unites States to prevent unintended pregnancies. To be exact, 97% of our services are preventative. Planned Parenthood health centers provide unbiased and nonjudgmental information to women facing unintended pregnancies so that those women are aware of all their options – parenting, adoption, or abortion. Our health centers work closely with various social services and adoption agencies in the communities to ensure reliable and safe referrals to women who do choose to continue with their pregnancies. Furthermore, we work closely with many neonatal clinics and refer pregnant women to these centers to ensure they are receiving the best prenatal services.

We are here to be as accessible as possible to women, men, and teens, and are proud of the nonjudgmental, caring, and kind environment we offer our patients. We are here to provide accurate medical information and options and let each individual chose what is best for her or his situation and body. We believe in self-determination of an individuals’ right to choose if and when to start a family. We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality sexual and reproductive health care in the nation. We believe in providing medically sound information to men, women, teens, and families so that they have the proper tools to make the best decision for themselves when it comes to their health and well-being.

I think Planned Parenthood does so much more than the general public realizes. I know I was ignorant of many of the services it provides before I started working here. But now I know. It is my sincere hope that people of the anti-choice slant begin to understand that Planned Parenthood is not filled with zealots wishing to eradicate children, but rather, is a health care service provider just the same as many hospitals and clinics the world over. In my opinion, Planned Parenthood is one of the best. This has been an incredible place for me to spend my time. Thank you Planned Parenthood, and good-bye.

Commitment to health care

2010-06-17T15:28:00.001-06:00

As a Board member, volunteer and supporter of Planned Parenthood of Southern Nevada, I feel that it is important for me to speak out about why I am involved with PPSN during Men’s Health Week. So often people think of Planned Parenthood as only a place where women can seek reproductive services, but Planned Parenthood is so much more. Planned Parenthood is a great place for men to seek reproductive health care, as well as comprehensive sexual education. PPSN has a long history of offering men’s health care services such as physical exams, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, testicular and colon cancer screenings, and cholesterol and high blood pressure tests. I got involved with PPSN because I believe that everyone should have access to high quality, affordable reproductive health care that is delivered in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. No one should have to go without that. It’s so basic and so important.

PPSN is a health care provider that welcomes everyone. They are committed to providing access to basic and reproductive health care for men and are affordable, convenient, and confidential. I support Planned Parenthood because they do amazing work and are a resource for all people in our community.

Robert Tyre
PPSN Board Member

Not the Doctor!!!

2010-06-16T16:11:00.003-06:00

“There is a silent health crisis in America...it’s that fact that, on average, American men live sicker and die younger than American women.” - Dr. David Gremillion

During my research for Men’s Health Week I learned that, on average, men drink more, smoke more, are more obese, less likely to exercise, more likely to be depressed, and die an average of six years earlier than women. As a male, this was not the news I was looking for, but at the same time I wasn’t surprised at my findings. What was surprising is that men are ½ as likely to visit a doctor for prevention as women are.

Not only do men not make regular doctor visits for prevention, but nearly 30% of men said they would wait "as long as possible" before seeking help for a health problem. I consider myself as a healthy person, but after really putting some thought into it, I realized that I fall into this category of men who stay away from the doctor unless it is absolutely necessary.

So why is this? Why do men make less than ½ as many physician visits for prevention? Why, when asked, do 80% of males consider their health as excellent, very good, or good, when the reality is that 32% of us are obese? Is it fear? Pride? Ignorance? All of the above?

The Waiting

There doesn’t seem to be a clear-cut answer as to why men won’t visit a doctor, but according to the American Journal of Public Health, the No. 1 reason men don't go to the doctor is the waiting time involved. Apparently, men are deterred by sitting around in a waiting room. I am not sure if I buy this one. It is an easy answer to give, but are women really that much more patient than men?

Perhaps it has something to do with the waiting rooms themselves. Many men complained that waiting rooms are geared more towards women with décor and reading materials. Again, I find this excuse hard to swallow. If it really bothers you that much to sit in a non-manly room for 30 minutes or so, bring your laptop, smart phone, iPad, whatever. Entertain yourself.

Embarrassment

While it appears to be getting better over the years, men still seem to have a harder time talking about health issues than women. Some researchers attribute this to the fact that women are socialized to have annual check-ups, where men are not. As children, both boys and girls have annual check-ups at about the same rate. However, as girls reach reproductive age, they begin to have annual gynecological examinations. As boys reach reproductive age, they actually begin to discontinue annual check-ups.

This might make women feel more comfortable dealing with and discussing their body’s ailments, but it shouldn’t prevent men from asking questions – especially when something is wrong. Men believe that their physical ailments are unique to themselves and it’s easier to avoid the embarrassment of talking about them if you just avoid going to the doctor all together.

Fear

This might be the most irrational of all reasons why men don’t visit their doctor: “What if something is really wrong with me?” Hmmm, let’s think about that. If you get a virus threat on your computer, you never say to yourself, “Maybe there is a bigger problem that could erase all of my files. I better not run Norton right now because I might find it.” No, you run your virus check and get rid of the problem.

Actually, I have to admit that has kept me from the doctor’s office before. It’s silly though. I know it and you know it, even if it has kept you from the doctor’s office before. The last time I had blood work completed, I remember being irrationally certain that it was going to come back with all sorts of bad news. I was wrong and just knowing that I was healthy made me feel healthier.

Doctor=Illness=Weakness

As I stated earlier, men are less than ½ as likely to make a doctors visit for prevention. They only see the doctor as a place to go when they are sick or injured, not when they are healthy. The problem with this is that a person with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and elevated blood sugars can feel fine until these symptoms get out of control or, even worse, cause death. Now don’t fall back into the preceding reason of “fear” because most of time these symptoms can be treated and reversed with a change in diet and exercise when they are caught early.

Tough-guy syndrome also can play a role in keeping men away from the doctor. It is looked upon that your body wasn’t strong enough to fight off whatever disease or injury occurred, therefore your body is weak. My father is a tough-as-nails steelmill worker from the Midwest, so I am guilty of having had this outlook on doctor visits as well. Over the years, however, I have found that the longer you wait to fix something, the more involved it gets.

Get Checked!

For Men’s Health Week, I ask every male to take a step towards their mental and physical health and make an appointment with a doctor. In fact, whether you are male or female, reach out and encourage another person to take a step towards their health. Regular check-ups and age-appropriate screenings can improve your health and reduce the risk of premature death and disability. As the old adage goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Ryan John

Volunteer

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Porqe Apoyo a Planned Parenthood

2010-06-15T09:30:00.001-06:00

Apoyo a Planned Parenthood por su profesionalismo y por su apoyo a la comunidad Latina. Planned Parenthood es un lugar que me siento muy seguro y confiable de sus servicios. Es un lugar donde una persona puede ir sin ningun prejuicio. Y por eso a apoyo a Planned Parenthood y su programa de Promotores de Salud.

Marco C. Flores Community Counseling Center

I will vote NO on Amendment 62

2010-06-02T11:55:00.002-06:00

November is coming – and that means campaigning, elections, and voting, oh my! This is always one of my favorite times as we prepare ourselves for national improvement, and yet, this year, there is a dark cloud circling overhead. Personhood Colorado has put Amendment 62 on our state ballot. This initiative would amend the Colorado Constitution to state that “the term ‘person’ shall apply to every human being from the beginning of biological development of that human being.”
Now, the first time I read the language of Amendment 62, I had to re-read it several times. It is poorly written and confusing. However, after careful and diligent analysis, I realized that this amendment, although slightly reworded, is 2008’s Amendment 48! It’s the same proposition with the same horrible consequences. If Amendment 62 passes, it could ban abortion. This includes abortion in cases of rape, incest, and when the health or life of the woman is at risk. If passed, this amendment could ban the Pill, IUDs, and other forms of safe, effective birth control. It could make in-vitro fertilization illegal. It could stop all forms of stem-cell research. It would be catastrophic to allow a group of extremists to rewrite the state constitution, and by doing so, impact many facets of the law and important life decisions people make every day.
As a young woman, I am passionately and firmly against Amendment 62. I am pro-choice. Being pro-choice does not mean that I am anti-family or anti-child. It simply means that I support each individual’s choice and right to have self-determination over her/his body and fertility. Who am I to judge what is right for another person? It is not my body, not my circumstance, not my life. Therefore, I support the right to chose what is best for each person in their own circumstances. If a woman wants to have an abortion, that is her decision. If she wants to carry her pregnancy to term, that is her decision. Such decisions should not be made by radical groups who believe that they know what is best for everyone in this great nation and have the audacity to try to press their beliefs upon us through force of law.
Proponents of Amendment 62 wish to ban abortion, and yet, their proposed initiative could make many forms of birth control illegal. Without access to legal, safe, and effective forms of birth control, the number of abortions is going to increase dramatically. The Pill is one of the most popular, common, and effective forms of contraception in America. According to a 2008 study conducted by the Guttmacher Institute, of the 62 million sexually active women between the ages of 15 and 44, 62 percent are using a form of birth control. Why on earth would the proponents of Amendment 62 wish to eliminate this? This amendment could also ban in-vitro fertilization. I know so many couples who have used IVF and are now thrilled parents because of it. Why take away that joy?
The possibility of Amendment 62 passing has me incredibly unnerved and frightened, but most of all, mad. Every woman deserves to have choices and options; the decisions they make with their doctor and family should not be dictated by a group of extremists who think impregnated victims of rape should be forced to see the “good” in their situations, or who think that the Pill should be illegal, or who think that stem-cell research and the life-saving knowledge rendered from it should be banned. Amendment 62 simply goes too far.
I am strong in my beliefs. I am convinced we will win in the argument over the “definition of person” initiative. I will vote NO on Amendment 62.

One year ago

2010-05-31T12:11:00.003-06:00

Today marks the year anniversary of Dr. Tillers murder and I would like to express my thanks to all the people that make womens' reproductive health a priority. Thank you to all of the health center staff that see patients every day, thank you to our wonderful doctors that help thousands of women and men each year, thank you to our strong escorts that come in day after day to assure our patients are safe and comfortable, thanks to all of our wonderful volunteers and interns that work so hard to support our mission and thank you to all of our amazing supporters that stand by us to defeat the many terrible ballots we may face. Dr. Tiller was a wonderful doctor and fought to do what he believed was right. I will always remember the work he did and remember why I work for Planned Parenthood.

A look at "real" life

2010-05-21T15:07:00.005-06:00

As I flipped through the TV guide (not the actual paperback one, the one on my TV) I was shocked to see what passes as “real life.” The Real World, Some people on the Jersey Shore, Kate someone with eight kids…this is “real life?!” Not mine and probably not yours. In Choice: Then and Now. Filmmaker Dorothy Fadiman uses motivation in her own life to Direct and Produce a series of documentaries about the struggles of life before abortion was legal, the fight to keep abortion safe, and the state of choice today.These are REAL people, dealing with very real issues.

On May 24th and 27th PBS will air the documentaries in Denver, and I personally want to watch every last minute. Its been more than 30 years since Roe v. Wade was made the law of the land, and this is an opportunity to see what life was like before women had access to reproductive freedom.

Most people born after 1973 have little insight as to the struggles and dangers women faced when they were left with unintended pregnancies. I want to see what the movement was like before 1973, I want to see the dangers of limited access, I want to hear the thoughts of people involved with the choice movement, and I want to learn what is being done today to help women gain access to more reproductive choices. Most of all, I want to see “real life” issues that remind me why I will always be Pro-Choice.

-Rob

Not in Denver? Take a look at the broadcast schedule.

Moving on up

2010-05-21T11:52:00.003-06:00

What a great week for the city of Glenwood! On May 17 the Glenwood Springs Planned Parenthood will welcome clients at its new location at 50923 U.S. Highway 6 and 24. This move is to a larger, state-of-the-art health center and is in direct response to the growing need for affordable reproductive and basic primary health care in the Roaring Fork Valley.

Why visit the Glenwood Springs health center? They offer services based on a sliding scale fee. Women who qualify may also receive free breast and cervical cancer screenings, including a pelvic exam, Pap test, breast exam, and mammogram. Plus! Many of the center’s medical professionals are bilingual.

Visit the new Glenwood health center or a health center near you.

got choice? If not, you should attend!

2010-05-19T13:34:00.000-06:00

What Does Health Care Reform Mean for You?

2010-05-07T10:39:00.005-06:00

OMG you might LOL but do you GYT? Let’s talk about it

2010-04-23T15:18:00.002-06:00

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are sneaky little buggars. Many of them offer no symptoms making them almost impossible to catch, unless you get yourself tested. And since many STDs have no symptoms, most people who are infected do not know it. Scary, huh? According to the CDC, of the approximate 19 million new STD infections that occur every year in the United States, half of them are among men and women between the ages of 15 and 24. Some more stats for you are that: one out of every four teenage girls has a common STD, while one out of two sexually active young adults will contract a STD by the age of 25. And again, most do not know it. April is national STD awareness month. To help combat the alarming statistics of STDs in the U.S., Planned Parenthood, MTV, the Kaiser Family Foundation, the CDC, and others created the GYT (get yourself tested) campaign. Our goal is to inform, test, and treat.

How is this campaign working so far? Let’s take a look:

- Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains offered two $5 testing days, and saw the number of chlamydia and gonorrhea tests increase from the usual average of 156 to over 2,754.

-Planned Parenthood of North and South Carolina has had a 100 percent increase in clients since the GYT launch in 2009.

-At campaign launch, “GYT” was one of the top Google searches.

-Planned Parenthood of Georgia has had a 64 percent increase in the number of men tested for gonorrhea.

-Planned Parenthood of South Central N.Y. has had a 70 percent increase in the number of women tested for STDs.

-Planned Parenthood of Greater Iowa saw the number of men tested for HIV double.

The numbers should speak for themselves. The GYT campaign is a national success.

It’s an inconvenient truth that the spread of STDs is a problem in the United States. Lack of accurate information and social stigma are two main reasons why many people do not get themselves tested. We’re here to tell you that it’s okay to get tested! Look at the numbers. People clearly are GTT (getting themselves tested). Why don’t you GYT? People mistakenly believe they are receiving STD testing as a part of their general health care, yearly check-up, or their OBGYN visit. If the doctor does not report back with any bad news, then no STD, right? WRONG. Unless you specifically ask to receive STD testing, then you are NOT being tested. Treatment of STDs is difficult without the tests and diagnosis. STD testing is easier than ever before. Chlamydia and gonorrhea (two of the most common and treatable, yes treatable, diseases) can be tested for with a quick and easy urine sample. HIV tests are done by taking a simple finger prick and are ready in 10 minutes. Diagnosis and treatment is essential. When left untreated, STDs can lead to an increased risk for HIV, infertility, and cancer. The only way to know if you have an STD is to get tested. Take control of your sexual health. GYT!!!! Let’s talk about it.

Thank you notes are not for everyone

2010-04-16T20:42:00.003-06:00

Well done, President Obama, well done. I congratulate you for navigating the bureaucratic waters and finally passing the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 on Sunday night in Washington. And yet, I hate to inform you, but our very own Attorney General, Mr. John Suthers, would like to challenge the need and right of every American to have access to public health care. In order to support Mr. Suthers’ argument, one must agree with his notion that reforming health care in the way Mr. Obama has suggested is unconstitutional. In other words, he believes that when our forefathers wrote the constitution they believed in equality in every measure BUT in that of health care. Mr. Suthers’ press statement is that the “government cannot force Americans to pay for a product they might not want”. While I concede to his point that it is not fair to require people to buy a product they do not want, such as say, a pair of jeans or laundry detergent, health care, in my opinion and the opinion of, at the very least, the population of over 41 states, is that health care is a service everyone will need at some point in their lives. Mr. Suthers, health care is not a pair of unwanted jeans. It is not laundry detergent. It is not a product. It is a service that every American has the right to access. It is a service that almost every other developed country offers its valued citizens, while we in America have failed to provide it to our people. Mr. Suthers would like to use Colorado’s tax-payers dollars to file a law suit against Obama’s health care legislation which the president will sign into law on Tuesday.

Let’s quickly recap some important points of the health care bill: the overall purpose of the bill is to have as many people as possible be insured, to expand health care coverage, and to decrease insurance prices nationwide. This sounds like a service everyone needs, whether they want it or not. No one wants to get sick, no one anticipates month-long hospital stays, and yet, if those events befall you, then you, my dear American citizen, will need and want the services that will be provided and paid for under the health care reform bill. And while the new health care reform bill will provide coverage for men and women, let’s take a moment to observe what the specific benefits to women are. The bill will provide low income women with preventative reproductive health care through Medicaid. (Supporting programs that sponsor preventative reproductive care saves tax-papers an estimated $14 million annually.) It will allow newly insured women to use their private health care to access medical care offered at community centers (like Planned Parenthood!). It will ensure that women with modest incomes can still benefit from free or low-cost breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings. It will stop insurance companies from charging women more than men for private health insurance. It will forbid insurance companies from denying private health insurance to women with “pre-existing” conditions such as pregnancy, c-sections, or having survived domestic abuse. (I’m sorry, but how are any of these things “pre-existing conditions” for which women must be monetarily punished? Scratch that, how are any of these things “pre-existing conditions” period??)

The great state of Nevada is writing “thank you” letters to its Attorney General, Catherine Cortez Masto, for supporting health care reform and for NOT using countless tax-payer dollars to file a lawsuit against this much needed health care bill. Mr. Suthers, I wish I could write you a thank you note. I would love to know that my tax dollars are NOT being spent to fight a bill which will provide a service that is guaranteed to be utilized by me, my family, friends, and neighbors at some point in our lives. 100% GUARANEED to be utilized by us. What other service is guaranteed to be utilized by every single American? Mr. Suthers, I wish I could write you a thank you note because you too think it is ridiculous and, to use your favorite word, unconstitutional that women have to pay more for health insurance than men, but I cannot, because you believe that is okay. I wish I could write you a thank you note because you believe that everyone has the right to quality public health care, but I cannot, because that is not something you believe. Mr. Suthers, your actions prove that you believe it is better to use Colorado taxes to file a law suit against the president’s health care reform bill, which will 100% be utilized by every single American citizen at some point during their lives, than to stop the senseless spending of our tax dollars and throw your support behind a well thought-out, imperative improvement in American domestic policy. I do not follow your logic. I do not agree with you. I cannot write you a thank you note.

Representative Stupak...

2010-03-23T10:04:00.002-06:00

Check out this great article!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/michael-moore/my-congressman-bart-stupa_b_506649.html

They are back

2010-03-18T15:50:00.000-06:00

Today, Personhood Colorado submitted what is likely to be enough new signatures to cure their original signature deficiency in order to place an amendment on Colorado’s 2010 ballot to rob women of their reproductive rights. These anti-choice forces needed to gather approximately 16,000 more signatures after failing to meet the required amount on February 12th and they report turning in 46,671 this afternoon. Further, in an effort to thwart the citizen initiative process and standards, they are threatening to sue the Secretary of State.

This means that is highly likely that Colorado will face another Definition of Person Amendment on the November 2010 ballot.

Thank you all for your support and dedication but we need your help now more than ever. You successfully helped us defeat these anti-choice forces in November 2008 by a 3-to-1 margin but these anti-choice forces are relentless!

We need your help NOW. Stay informed and become active by helping Planned Parenthood Votes Colorado identify, elect and support officials who will protect women’s health. If you are interested in staying involved, become a member of Planned Parenthood Votes Colorado TODAY to stay informed about important issues, legislation and political work. Simply fill out this petition and you will become a member today.

International Women's Day

2010-03-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

International Women's Day is a time to recommit ourselves to protecting and promoting womens health in the U.S. and beyond our borders. Planned Parenthood and our partner organizations are hard at work every day — advocating for and providing reproductive health care around the world.

Check out our video and please take a moment to read Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards blog. Learn more and take action at www.plannedparenthood.org/international.

2010 Denver citywide production of the Vagina Monologues!

2010-03-04T12:30:00.001-07:00

Pro-Choice Day at the Capitol!

2010-02-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

On March 10th, people just like you will come together to make our voices heard during our annual Lobby Day. As a part of this event, you will have the chance to see the legislature in session, receive training on how to lobby and then have the opportunity to meet with your elected officials.

Lobby Day offers a look inside the legislative process and is a great chance to learn how to lobby at the local level.

Below is what the day the look like:

9:00 – 9:45 – Registration and breakfast

9:45 – 10:45 – Issue briefing and training panel

11:00-12:00 – Travel to Colorado State Capitol and LOBBY!

12:15- 1:00 – Lunch and Debrief

RSVP

They're Back!

2010-02-12T12:56:00.011-07:00

Today, Personhood Colorado submitted approximately 80,000 signatures in an attempt to place an amendment on the upcoming ballot to rob Colorado women of their reproductive rights. These anti-choice forces need only 76,047 certified signatures to put this extreme measure on the ballot. If you don't think your rights are at risk, they are.

You should know the truth.

TRUTH: 'Definition of a person' could ban all abortion procedures, even in cases of rape, incest, or when the health or life of the woman is at risk.

TRUTH: 'Definition of a person' could outlaw use of the Pill, IUDs and other safe, effective methods of birth control.

TRUTH: 'Definition of a person' could severely restrict access to in-vitro fertilization for Colorado.

Please help make sure we succeed by joining me in opposing these anti-choice extremists by supporting Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains’ important work to provide access to affordable reproductive health care services and comprehensive sex education to the women, men and young adults of Colorado.

Please help

Thank you,
PPRM

- Planned Parenthood

2010-01-29T16:06:00.001-07:00

- Planned Parenthood

Posted using ShareThis

The Voice of PPRM

2009-12-17T15:51:00.000-07:00

Blogs, letter to the editor, feature columns…Planned Parenthood has always been a popular topic of conversation and recently we have been all over the news. Topics range from programs offered and safe sex art to upcoming personhood initiatives. From Las Vegas to Fort Collins, PPRM serves 125,000 women, men and teens at our 29 health centers throughout our four state region and occasionally our supporters receive national attention for their contribution.

2010 will be a busy year and we expect to receive even more media attention throughout the year. PPRM kicks off the new year celebrating the 37th Anniversary of the Roe V. Wade decision with events in Las Vegas and Colorado. Please join us for our future events and be sure to check out our sites to stay informed throughout the year!

Thank you for standing up for women's health care

2009-12-10T09:34:00.001-07:00

Earlier this week, we asked you to contact your Senators and request that they vote “No” on the Nelson-Hatch Amendment. Thanks to your rapid response, over 950 requests were placed to our Colorado Senators and your voice was heard!

On December 8^th, by a vote of 54-45, the Senate defeated the anti-choice Nelson/Hatch amendment proposed as part of the health care reform legislation. Unlike the Stupak amendment that was included in the House of Representatives’ health care reform bill, this amendment did not make it into the Senate bill.

Colorado senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall both voted to table this dangerous amendment and your e-mails and phone calls helped make this happen.

Our legislators make decisions based on the interest of their constituents, and often we contact our elected officials in a time of need. But it is also important for our legislators to hear from us when they fought for an issue of importance. A phone call or email only takes a moment and is a powerful way to reinforce that health care reform won't be fair - and will not succeed - if it comes at such high cost to women.

As a health care provider, Planned Parenthood is committed to passing health care reform that will guarantee affordable, quality health care coverage for all, including access to comprehensive reproductive health care.

Thank you for the hard work and please join Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains in thanking Senator Michael Bennet (202) 224-5852 and Senator Mark Udall 877-768-3255 for fighting to protect women’s health.

Please vote NO on the Nelson-Hatch Amendment!

2009-12-07T19:07:00.004-07:00

As you are probably aware, we have reached a critical moment in the health care reform debate, and your urgent action is needed. Anti-choice senators introduced an amendment to the health care reform bill that would ban abortion coverage from all private and public insurance plans for millions of American women. A similar version of this ban was passed by the House of Representatives (known as the Stupak-Pitts amendment) last month. Fortunately, we still have a chance to stop this dangerous amendment from also passing in the Senate.

Please join us in sending an email to Colorado Senators Mark Udall and Michael Bennet to urge them to oppose the Nelson-Hatch Amendment.

Although both of our Colorado Senators have demonstrated support for excluding restrictive abortion access language in the Senate health care reform bill, they still need to hear from their constituents that we are counting on their continued support and "NO" vote on the Nelson-Hatch amendment. This dangerous amendment is expected to move quickly and would be the most serious restriction of access to abortion coverage in three decades. It is imperative that we contact our Senators’ offices today and make our voices heard.

TAKE ACTION!

12.2 Campus day of action

2009-12-02T16:01:00.002-07:00

Today, December 2, 2009, I stand as one with Planned Parenthood to say that we are outraged at those who are abusing the historic debate over health care reform as another way to effectively ban abortion. PPRM was on campus all day, but you can still help out. Sign our petition.

http://www.ppaction.org/campaign/hcr09foc_pporg?source=hcr09foc_affl

Thank you Representative DeGette

2009-11-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

Please join Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains in sending thanks to Representative Diana DeGette for standing up for women's health.

As co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, DeGette has been a consistent leader for women’s reproductive health in the health care reform debate and she continues to fight for full access to reproductive healthcare.

Over the last several days, DeGette has voiced her opposition to efforts that restrict access to women’s reproductive health and has advocated for comprehensive reform that includes access to reproductive health care.

Actions include:

DeGette spoke on the floor in opposition to the Stupak-Pitts Amendment: DeGette Floor Speech in Opposition to Stupak-Pitt

DeGette said in a statement that the restrictions the amendment would place on a woman's right to choose "sets a terrible precedent and marks a significant step backwards."

DeGette along with U.S. Rep. Louise M. Slaughter of New York (co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus), on November 7, issued the below joint statement following the vote on the House floor on the Stupak-Pitts amendment to the health care reform bill: “Placing onerous new restrictions on a woman’s right to choose sets a terrible precedent and marks a significant step backwards. This effort will effectively ban abortion coverage in all plans, both private and public – marking a significant scaling back of the options offered under existing laws. Such a terrible, last minute amendment to a critical, historic piece of legislation is a shame. This kind of outrageous interference in health care by the government marks a sad day in this struggle and will result in women across America losing the right to health care.”

Click here to send a thank you letter to Rep. DeGette

Women’s Day of Action for Health Care Reform

2009-11-02T21:25:00.003-07:00

Women’s Day of Action for Health Care Reform

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

On November 4, 2009, the National Women’s Law Center will be spearheading a Women’s Day of Action for Health Care Reform to highlight the inequities women face in our broken health care system and the need for health care reform that works for women and their families. Please use the attached flyers to help us spread the word.

During the day, we invite organizations are invited to participate in three different ways:

Organize a Local Area Event

Resources will be available for advocates and organizations to hold house parties and trivia nights throughout the country. To ensure that you and your organization receive the materials as soon as they are available, and so we can help promote your event on our website, please register your event at http://action.nwlc.org/womensday.

Washington DC Event

NWLC will host an all-day (from 9 am to 9 pm) vigil in Dupont Circle, where health care stories will be read throughout the day. We want to make sure that stories from all perspectives are read. Organizations in the area can participate in the vigil by:

“Adopting” an hour of time to read stories from your members.
Volunteering to read stories we gather from around the country.
Visiting our readers in Dupont Circle during the day of the event.

To volunteer to read stories or to help during the day of event please email Thao Nguyen at tnguyen@nwlc.org or 202-588-5180.

Online Event

We will provide online resources for those unable to attend an event in their area so that they will also be able to participate in the Women’s Day of Action.

For questions and to participate in the Women’s Day of Action for Health Care Reform, please contact Thao Nguyen at tnguyen@nwlc.org or 202-588-5180.

The need for safe abortions internationally...

2009-10-30T09:38:00.004-06:00

This is a really interesting article and study about unsafe abortions in the developing world...they're not only dangerous, but they're also very costly.

See here to read more!

Breast Cancer Awareness Week 10.23

2009-10-23T10:08:00.002-06:00

As October nears to an end PPRM would like to express the importance of regular breast exams. About 180,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year in the U.S. and 40,000 women will die from it. That’s why it is imperative to receive breast cancer screenings, such as breast exams or mammograms, and tell loved ones to do the same. Early detection of breast cancer can aid in recover because it is more treatable at this stage. Early detection saves lives.

One of the programs PPRM provides to the community is the Women’s Wellness Connection (WWC). The WWC provides free breast and cervical cancer screening to low income, uninsured and underserved women across Colorado. Also, in April 2009, PPRM’s Aurora health center was awarded a grant from Susan G. Komen for the Cure® for continued breast health education, clinical breast exams and resources to connect its clients with a continuity of medically recommended screening services.

If you have questions or concerns about breast cancer, we are here to help. A staff member at your local Planned Parenthood health center can discuss breast cancer, breast exams, and breast health with you and help you find the services you need.

-PPRM

Breast Cancer Awareness Week 10.22

2009-10-22T09:57:00.004-06:00

Staff members at Planned Parenthood,

So often people see their doctors and don’t think about how they really do help their patients every day. I really do see now. I just want to say thank you so much for not ignoring me when I found a lump in my breast. Although my risk factors were not high, you gave my problem attention to ensure I was safe and surely if saved my life. I am now cancer free after surgery, chemotherapy and radiation and am so thankful to still be here for my little boy who I just started taking to pre-school.

Thank you so much.

Love,
Anonymous

Breast Cancer Awareness Week 10.21

2009-10-21T11:35:00.001-06:00

This past August my family and I commemorated the four-year anniversary of my sister's diagnosis with breast cancer.

I remember those initial days and the extreme sadness and fear that consumed us. Now as we reflect back on that time, we cannot help but think about how much our lives have been enriched. Through this process we have met some of the most wonderful, compassionate people. The doctors and nurses that cared for my sister were nothing less than amazing. Each of them took the time to ease a fear, pass a smile or share in a laugh. The kindness they showed us will never be forgotten. Their encouragement will keep us strong. We are so thankful that they came into our lives and we know that in them, we have made lifelong friends.

There were so many times during the process that I wished I could have taken the pain and sickness from my sister. So many times my heart was crushed having to watch her go through what she did. But more times than that, I simply found myself looking at her. Looking at her…and thinking about her courage. Looking at her…as she held her head high, even though I know deep down it was tough. Looking at her…keeping such a positive attitude as she lost her hair and her body changed. Looking at her…mother her girls in the same selfless way she had before her diagnosis. Whether she was lying in a hospital bed or holding back tears as we shaved the last of her long brown locks, my sister embodied strength. Our bond as brother and sister has always been strong, but now it seems impenetrable.

To fight her stage III breast cancer, my sister went through eight rounds of intensive chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and several weeks of radiation. Following treatment, my sister underwent a two-year process to reconstruct both breasts.

It is still hard to comprehend that my sister celebrated her 31st birthday the same week she had both of her breasts removed. I think most of us live thinking that we have age on our side. That sickness is something that happens to our parents or grandparents. If anything, this lesson has taught us that it is dangerous to live under that veil of untruth. Taking good care of ourselves is a lifelong process. Being an advocate for our health is worthy of our efforts.

The outpouring of support for my sister was tremendous. Our friends and family did everything from remodeling her house to surprising her with a Christmas tree decorated in all pink. There were so many times over the past several years we found ourselves fighting back tears of gratitude and thanks.

Four years later I am proud to say that my sister is living cancer free. My sister will always be a cancer survivor and her routine check-ups will continue to approach with a lingering sense of uneasiness. My sister continues to have positive outcomes thanks in large part to the care she received.

Cancer has changed our lives forever.

Jade Williamson
Supporter
Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Breast Cancer Awareness Week 10.20

2009-10-20T09:12:00.005-06:00

It wasn’t until my mother laid down on our bathroom floor and told me to feel her tumors that could fully comprehend the magnitude of what was affecting her body. We have a long history of breast cancer in our family and she wanted me to have a reference of what the lumps feel like. I was very hesitant to do as she asked. Until that moment I thought of Breast Cancer, as something my mother would never have to fight. She was the epitome of health, a nurse practitioner, hiker, healthy eater and genuinely happy person. Our whole family was in denial.

About a week prior my mother had gone in for her yearly mammogram. The test found one lump. She wasn’t particularly concerned but a dear friend convinced her a biopsy was urgent. Upon further inspection the medical doctors found two more tumors. It wasn’t until she underwent a double mastectomy that we learned she had five separate tumors, two in the right breast and three in the left.

My mother is five years out from her chemotherapy and radiation. She is considered free of the cancer and continues to eat crazy amounts of cabbage and hike. No one is immune from cancer, even my mother. The smartest thing my mother ever made me do was feel her cancer. I cannot begin to thank her for the knowledge she gave me. I know not everyone will have that same experience as I did but regardless, monthly self-exams for all women of all ages are a must and yearly mammograms from about age 35 are imperative. My mother’s yearly mammogram and the support of her friends and family saved her life. If we are to combat this disease, we need to be on top of our own health and be as informed as possible.

Amanda Hoyt
Volunteer
Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Breast Cancer Awareness Week 10.19

2009-10-19T10:25:00.002-06:00

My circumstances are a bit different than many breast cancer survivors - this is the second time I've been diagnosed with cancer, after 30 years of being cancer free. In 1975, when I was 18 years old, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease, stage 1A. I was very fortunate - I was at an excellent, nationally recognized cancer center at Shands Teaching Hospital at the University of Florida, and my cancer was caught early. After three months of cobalt radiation therapy, I returned to college and graduated a quarter early! Over the years the doctors at Shands have kept in touch with me as part of their research efforts into the long-term side effects of cobalt radiation. I knew the importance of and fully embraced regular screening such as mammograms. So I was prepared - at least intellectually - when my breast cancer was diagnosed after a routine mammogram.

What I was not prepared for was four separate masses, all in one breast, each a different type of breast cancer! The decision to have a bilateral mastectomy wasn't easy but I knew it was the right one for me, especially once the oncologists decided that I could not undergo additional radiation therapy. Thankfully I did not need infusion chemotherapy; for three years I have been on oral Tamoxifen (daily) and Lupron injections (monthly). In July I had a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy due to side effects from the Tamoxifen and my oncologist switched me to an aromatase inhibitor to finish out the next two years of therapy. The mood swings, the hot flashes, the joint pain - all represent breast cancer AND survival for me. After all, if I wasn't alive, I wouldn't be able to complain about the side effects.

With all this going on in my personal life, I applied for the position of education program specialist with PPRM in Las Vegas in 2008. Knowing Planned Parenthood's commitment to reproductive health gave me the peace of mind that I would be working for and with people who care about women like me, breast cancer survivors whose lives have been changed, who deal with the daily effects of the disease and the treatments and still manage to continue on with both our personal and professional lives. I am grateful for Planned Parenthood's dedication to helping all people with sexual and reproductive health. My Planned Parenthood colleagues are dedicated and caring, and it isn't just a professional facade. Their love and support for me and my family is apparent every day. Every day I give thanks for being a member of the Planned Parenthood family!

Caren D. Bedsworth
Education Program Specialist
Planned Parenthood of Southern Nevada

Do you know what else October is? It's Sex Ed Month of Action!

2009-10-16T13:33:00.004-06:00

Back in August, our friends at SIECUS reported disturbing results from the CDC regargding teen sexual health trends. With rising teen pregnancy rates, STD statistics, sexual assault, and an overall lack of comprehensive, evidence-based sex education programs in our schools (thanks to the unwise policy decisions of a certain eight year administration), we'd like to draw attention to Sex Ed Month of Action! For more information on how to take action, see here!

Think Before You Pink?

2009-10-15T15:25:00.001-06:00

This is sad! Buyer beware...
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/14/breast-cancer-awareness-v_n_321709.html

PLANNED PARENTHOOD TO RECOGNIZE NATIONAL LATINO AIDS AWARENESS DAY

2009-10-14T15:43:00.001-06:00

On Oct. 15, Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains will join hundreds of organizations across the nation to promote HIV testing and information in recognition of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD). NLAAD is a nationwide community mobilization campaign seeking to raise the visibility of HIV/AIDS within the Latino community.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HIV/AIDS is the number-four killer of Latinos aged 35 to 44 in the United States. While Latinos represent 15 percent of the U.S. population, they account for 19 percent of all AIDS cases since the beginning of the epidemic and 19 percent of all people in the United States living with AIDS.

National Latino AIDS Awareness Day was initiated in 2003 by the Latino Commission on AIDS and the Hispanic Federation. NLAAD is a day to celebrate Latinos’ rich collective heritage during Hispanic Heritage month, as well as an opportunity to remind Latino communities across the country that the epidemic continues to threaten Latino health and lives.

In contrast to other racial and ethnic groups and despite advances in treatment, Latinos are not experiencing the same declines in HIV infection.

Annually on this day, Latinos around the country and organizations participating in NLADD not only recognize the toll HIV has taken on their community, they also raise awareness of the importance of prevention and care through HIV testing activities, press conferences, health fairs, cultural events, candlelight vigils, religious services, health screenings, and many other activities. Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains would like to remind the Latino community that our health centers across the country offer affordable health care options and we’re here to help.

NLAAD is supported by Planned Parenthood, NBC, Telemundo, the Kaiser Family Foundation, Univisión, MTV Trés, OraSure Technologies, the Office of Minority Health, and Boehringer-Ingelheim. For more information on where to get tested for HIV or to find out how you can participate in one of many events, please visit www.nlaad.org.

This may be stating the obvious, but get a mammogram! (Because they work.)

2009-10-13T09:23:00.003-06:00

http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssBiotechnology/idUSN0644662320091006

Check out our partnership with the Denver Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®!

2009-10-12T10:50:00.002-06:00

Check it out!

Stop by our Aurora clinic or call 1.800.230.PLAN for more information!

This program has literally saved lives! Check out Women's Wellness Connection TODAY.

2009-10-09T09:13:00.006-06:00

Connect. Get checked. Be well.

Women's Wellness Connection is a program that helps women who live in Colorado get free breast and cervical cancer screenings. This includes clinical breast exams, pelvic exams, Pap tests, and for those 50 and older, a screening mammogram. For women 40 to 49, mammograms are provided if there is a direct family history (mother or sister) and/or a symptomatic problem is found during the clinical breast exam. Some diagnostic services such as colposcopies are also paid for by the program.

WWC provides free screenings for women who:

---Live in Colorado.
---Meet Colorado citizenship verification.
---Are 40-64 years old.
---Have limited or no health insurance to pay for these screenings.
---Have not had a Pap test or mammogram in the last 12 months.
---Meet income requirements.

Connect 866.951.9355 to learn more about getting yourself screened--for free! Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains is an official Community Coordinator of WWC!

The Dangerous Myths About Breast Cancer and Abortion

2009-10-08T11:36:00.002-06:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it's important to seek facts, rather than adhere to scare tactics, about its possible causes. Here is an interesting compilation of studies that clearly shows abortion is NOT a cause of breast cancer.

http://www.fwhc.org/abortion/abcancer.htm

It Stops With Me!

2009-10-07T11:57:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, the Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) hosted a very moving rally at the Capitol observing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Kudos to the East High School ‘Angels Against Abuse’ for raising awareness through their performances, as well as sincere gratitude to victims and survivors of dating violence for having the courage and composure to tell their powerful stories. Please join PPRM in joining the crusade against domestic and dating violence by pledging ‘It Stops With Me!’

Please visit www.ccadv.org for statistics on domestic violence and related services in Colorado. If you or someone you know is being abused, you can also visit this site for information on how to obtain safe and confidential support services.

Today, Governor Ritter will hold a news conference to sign an executive order establishing a universal policy to protect state employees from workplace and domestic violence.

The CCADV presents It Stops With Me

2009-09-29T22:06:00.001-06:00

Planning is Power!

2009-09-17T16:56:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

2009-09-14T12:59:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to Planned Parenthood's founder Margaret Sanger, she's 130 today!

Read more about Ms. Sanger and the history of Planned Parenthood!

Colorado Coalition for Girls 3rd Annual Conference

2009-09-11T11:24:00.002-06:00

For more information or to RSVP, visit http://www.cocoalitionforgirls.org/guest/conference/

You gotta read this!

2009-09-09T09:48:00.002-06:00

A must read from the Washington Post!

The Next Health Reform Myth

DECLINE TO SIGN

2009-09-04T15:15:00.002-06:00

Be Aware! Personhood CO are planning on attending many state wide festivals in the coming months. If you see anyone from Personhood CO gathering signatures please DECLINE TO SIGN. Spread the word and tell your friends about this effort. They tend to use confusing and misleading language to encourage people to sign.

These are the same people who supported Amendment 48. They are proposing a similar initiative for next year’s ballot. Defining the term person from the beginning of biological development in that human being is dangerous and deceptive and simply goes too far. We don’t want our supporters to be fooled – remember DECLINE TO SIGN and tell your friends and family the same.

Does Condom Size Matter?

2009-09-03T22:20:00.002-06:00

I was recently reminded of the condoms that I used to wear - it's been awhile since I got married and settled down to one partner. But these things were great - condoms in 70 different sizes.

You start out by downloading a custom fit kit that you or your partner will use to find your size. No more browsing the condom aisle deciding whether you should get "regular," large," or "one-size-fits-all". No more awkwardness trying to apply or keep on an ill-fitting condom. No more wondering if the condom will break because it doesn't fit right. There really are a lot of considerations to adorning your member with the proper attire.

Check it out, and don't go out over- or under-dressed!

Happy Women's Equality Day!!

2009-08-26T16:08:00.000-06:00

August 26 of each year is designated in the United States as Women's Equality Day. Instituted by Rep. Bella Abzug and first established in 1971, the date commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment, the Woman Suffrage Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which gave U.S. women full voting rights in 1920.

Colorado AIDS Walk

2009-08-18T12:32:00.001-06:00

Team PPRM!
Originally uploaded by PP Rocky Mountains

Thanks to everyone who joined us for the Colorado AIDS walk this past Saturday. We had a team of 16 volunteers and our pink shirts stuck out! People screamed "yeah! Planned Parenthood" as we walked by. It was great.

One comment I heard was: "Planned Parenthood saved my life." That's why we do the work that we do!

Thanks again to our great AIDS Walk Team!

You can check out more of our photos from AIDS Walk here http://www.flickr.com/photos/40753460@N06/

It's OK to Stay Gay

2009-08-13T15:04:00.002-06:00

Last week, the American Psychological Association (APA) adopted a resolution stating, "mental health professionals should avoid telling clients that they can change their sexual orientation through therapy or other treatments."

Some evidence has even suggested that such therapy could do harm to the patient. Instead, the APA suggested, "Practitioners can assist clients through therapies that do not attempt to change sexual orientation, but rather involve acceptance, support and identity exploration and development without imposing a specific identity outcome."

Happily, Colorado-based Focus on the Family is now divesting itself of its workshops that were intended to turn gay people straight. You might think that this was in response to the findings of the APA. Or maybe they're realizing that being gay is not outside of God's plan. But no, the reason is that they are not making money at it. According to Focus vice president Gary Schneeberger, "The economic challenges led us to this strategic decision..."

Focus on the Family is essentially admitting that adapting society to its viewpoint is secondary to making money, which leads one to question any tenet that they may proffer. Fortunately, as a result, we can hope to see less discrimination, less guilt, and less harm at the behest of such homophobic groups.

Sexual orientation and gender identity are not always simple issues. But most of us would say, if you're gay, be gay. If you're not, be straight. But if you're struggling, then there are other avenues to turn to, such as those accessible through Planned Parenthood health centers.

Plumbing, Discrimination, and Health Insurance Rates

2009-08-12T16:17:00.001-06:00

Check out this great article from our friend Laura Chapin on Huffington Post about gender discrimination in the health care battle!!

Here's a snippet:
"Here's a newsflash for the insurance industry: the health issues of the majority of the population aren't a more-expensive aberration, they should be an accounted-for norm. This is why we need a public option -- so that women can speak with their checkbooks and choose health care that treats them as equals. Regardless of plumbing."

Shelby Knox Movie Night

2009-08-11T18:50:00.001-06:00

We're having a great time at Movie Night here at PPRM's 38th Ave Campus. Here are some pictures from Allison's education piece.

Hope to see you at our next movie night! Check out our twitter feed, live tweeting from the rest of movie night.

Is this how you want your kids to learn about SEX?

2009-08-11T11:56:00.002-06:00

School board elections are fast approaching. Make sure your schools are teaching comprehensive sex ed or your kids are going to learn about sex with crazy metaphors from their friends and TV, like this:

To learn more about what Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains is doing to ensure your kids' schools have comprehensive sex ed contact Stephanie Begun!

Birth Control in Denver Schools? Maybe!

2009-08-10T18:01:00.002-06:00

Check out this great article from the Sun Journal

Here's a sneak peek:

DENVER - At least once a day, a teenage girl walks into North High School's health clinic, wanting to find out if she's pregnant.

Frequently, it turns out she is. With the city's teen birth rate more than double the statewide rate of 24.3 births per 1,000 girls between the ages of 15-17, Denver school officials are considering a proposal to dispense contraceptives in six school-based health clinics that serve the district's most impoverished students.

Is this how you want your kids to learn about SEX?

2009-08-10T13:42:00.002-06:00

This week we are starting a series about Sex Education and our schools. Colorado Schools need to offer comprehensive sex education or all of our kids will learn about sex through things like this:

To learn more about what Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains is doing to ensure your kids' schools have comprehensive sex ed contact Stephanie Begun!

Events: Week of August 9

2009-08-07T09:41:00.001-06:00

Next week is a very exciting week for PPRM Public Affairs! Want to help us make a difference? We’d love if you can join us at any of these events!

1) Interested in reproductive education policies in our schools? Join us for an inspiring movie and collaboration with our fabulous Education Department! Then, learn how to get involved in making a difference! Back to School Movie Night! Tuesday, August 11^th. For more details and to RSVP, click here.

2) Health care reform, threats of personhood on the ballot (again), reproductive education policies…the public needs information! Join us for: Crowd Canvassing at a Rockies Day Game! Thursday, August 13^th. For more details and to RSVP, click here.

3) Get some exercise, meet some new friends and support an amazing cause! Join our team at the: Colorado AIDS Walk! Saturday, August 15^th. For more details and to RSVP, click here.

Just Say No to 48, Again!

2009-08-05T10:51:00.004-06:00

The supporters of 2008’s Amendment 48 are back with another vague attempt at permanently changing the Colorado Constitution. The proposed amendment "still goes too far". The amendment is vague and deceptive just like last year's which Colorado voters resounding defeated by a 3 to 1 margin (73% to 27%). The new ballot language is nearly identical to last year’s. We need your help!

Sign our petition now!

The petition states:
Amendment 48 was more than a sneaky attempt to ban all abortion in Colorado, even for survivors of rape and incest or to protect a woman's health. It would have had far- reaching consequences on important life decisions: it could have banned birth control, in vitro fertilization, and stem cell research. If a woman with a fertilized egg were diagnosed with cancer, she could have been denied access to life-saving medical treatment because it would endanger the fetus. Even more alarming, Amendment 48 would have allowed a doctor acting in the best interest of his or her patient to face criminal charges for harming a fertilized egg.

I commit to fight just as hard this time as I did last year.

Sign up now!! Together, we will defeat them, again.

Hooray for Italy; Vatican - Not So Much

2009-08-02T22:13:00.009-06:00

Catholic Church Threatens Excommunication for Women Who Take Abortion Pill, and Their Doctors.

Italy just approved the use of mifepristone, also known as RU-486 or the abortion pill. This is important, as it makes available a new method for women seeking an effective and private method to end an early pregnancy.

As Silvio Viale, a Turin gynecologist pointed out, the decision was "a victory for Italian women, who from today have more freedom and choice."

The Catholic Church, however, was less than pleased:

"There will be excommunication for the doctor, the woman and anyone who encourages its use," said Monsignor Elio Sgreccia, emeritus president of the Pontifical Academy for Life and the pope's top expert on bioethical issues.

When I see news like this, it makes me wonder why some people continue to associate with their "given" religion. We all have a sense of what is morally acceptable. For someone to grow up loving their faith and its associated traditions, only to be faced with the threat of expulsion for something that they might not see as a problem, signals a significant incompatibility between dogma and reason.

Many people seem to pick and choose what to follow from the traditions in which they were raised. That's fine for the individual, but in many cases it lends credibility to misogynistic, coercive, power-hungry institutions that would do well to move into the 20th century. Perhaps this is why we see so many splits in religions of every type, all of them purporting to be reasonable.

Anyway, kudos to the Italian Government for not kowtowing to the prevailing bullies of the day!

Urge Congress to Include Comprehensive Reproductive Health Care in Reform Legislation

2009-07-30T22:28:00.007-06:00

With health care reform at our doorstep, abortion opponents are stepping up efforts to introduce a specific exclusion that would limit government funding of abortions.

Most women who seek an abortion never planned to need one. But when they do, they are likely in a vulnerable state, faced with a potentially life-altering decision. It is then that they need the support of their community more than ever. It is crucial that we support women who are faced with this difficult decision, and that we provide for ALL of their medical needs, putting the decision to abort - or not - back in the hands of the woman who must live with it.

This type of measure has been passed before, in the form of the Hyde Amendment, which in most cases excludes abortion from the otherwise comprehensive health care services provided to low-income women through Medicaid. This is not a matter of cost, in terms of spending taxpayer money - the cost of delivering and raising a child is greater. The bigger issue is that politicians would impose their own religious or moral views on poor women.

Don't let this happen again. Contact your Colorado Senator and urge them to keep abortion services as a vital part of any comprehensive health care legislation:

Senator Michael Bennet: (202) 224-5852
Senator Mark Udall: (202) 224-5941

Thank Congresswoman Markey

2009-07-29T10:08:00.002-06:00

Call Representative Markey and thank her for speaking out against the Pence Amendment:

Washington D.C. = 202.225.4676
Ft. Collins = 970.221.7110

http://coloradoindependent.com/34063/congressional-lawmakers-reject-bill-to-strip-planned-parenthood-funding

Sad News from the World of International Family Planning

2009-07-29T08:20:00.007-06:00

This is a powerful reminder of what we're trying to prevent from happening here in the U.S. Nonetheless, it's tragic this is happening anywhere:

Nicaragua abortion ban 'cruel and inhuman disgrace'

(CNN) -- Nicaragua's total ban on abortion is a "cruel, inhuman disgrace" that's led to the rise in maternal deaths, human rights organization Amnesty International has said.

Nicaraguan women hold up signs shaped like the female form during a 2008 protest against the anti-abortion law. The Central American country's revised penal code on abortion came into force in July 2008 and criminalizes all forms of abortion regardless of the circumstances, even in cases of rape or incest, a deformed fetus, or when the mother's life is in danger. Amnesty's researchers visited the country on a fact-finding mission to assess the impact on the lives of women in Nicaragua.

The findings are detailed in the report issued Monday, titled: "The total abortion ban in Nicaragua: Women's lives and health endangered, medical professionals criminalized."
Amnesty International describes the total ban on therapeutic abortion -- carried out to protect the health of the mother -- as "cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment."

"Nicaragua's ban on therapeutic abortion is a disgrace," Amnesty International's Executive Deputy Secretary General Kate Gilmore said at a media briefing in Mexico City to launch the report. "It is a human rights scandal that ridicules medical science and distorts the law into a weapon against the provision of essential medical care to pregnant girls and women," she added.

Gilmore was the head of a group of Amnesty activists who visited Nicaragua, to gather the personal accounts of doctors and women. Nicaragua hands out prison sentences for girls and women who seek an abortion and for doctors and nurses who provide services linked with abortion. Amnesty reports that doctors and nurses are frightened to treat a pregnant woman or girl for illnesses such as cancer, malaria, HIV/AIDS or cardiac emergencies where treatment could cause injury or death to the fetus.

One health worker told Amnesty researchers that one woman who was admitted to hospital following a miscarriage was so terrified of being prosecuted for abortion that she asked doctors not to treat her in case any treatment was seen as an intentional termination of pregnancy.
"She told the health worker that she was concerned that her neighbor, who knew she was pregnant, might report her for having an abortion," the report said. "There's only one way to describe what we have seen in Nicaragua: sheer horror. Children are being compelled to bear children. Pregnant women are being denied essential - including life-saving - medical care," said Gilmore.

According to official figures cited in the Amnesty report, in the first five months of 2009, 33 girls and women died from pregnancy and birth-related complications, compared to 20 in the same period last year.

Before the law was changed therapeutic abortion had been recognized as a necessary procedure in Nicaragua for more than 100 years, Amnesty said. However, President Daniel Ortega of the left-wing Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) backed the law banning abortion to win crucial conservative Roman Catholic support in the January 2007 elections, Amnesty said.
No one from the country's health ministry was available for comment.

Three years ago when the ban was first signed into law, the BBC reported that a statement on presidency's Web site said the new legislation would help protect the right to life enshrined in the Nicaraguan constitution.

The statement said abortion "allowed the daily execution of innocent children in their mother's womb, in open violation of the Constitution which protected the unborn child", the BBC reported.
Nicaragua is among only a few countries in the world where abortion is illegal regardless of any circumstances. Others in Latin America include Chile, El Salvador and the Dominican Republic. Malta and the Philippines also have a total ban on abortion. "The revision of the penal code is a retrogressive measure under international law and places Nicaragua at odds with proven public health policy," says the Amnesty report. In rape cases reported to the police in Nicaragua, half of the female victims are under 18 and 16 percent become pregnant.

Between 1999 and 2005, an average of around 7,000 women and girls were admitted annually to hospitals in Nicaragua for health complications that ended in abortion or miscarriage, says the report.

Colorado AIDS Walk

2009-07-27T14:40:00.003-06:00

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains is throwing on our Pink T-shirts and joining the Colorado AIDS Walk! Come join us and show your support!

Saturday, August 15
9:30am
Cheesman Park

Click here to join our team

Then, click on join existing team and scroll down to Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains.

More information to come on where to meet.

Where: AIDS Walk Colorado is a 5K Walk that begins in Cheesman Park and winds through the streets of Denver?s Capitol Hill neighborhood before finishing back in the park.

What: AIDS Walk Colorado is the Rocky Mountain Region?s largest and most successful HIV and AIDS fundraiser. More than 8,000 people from throughout the state come together as a community, fueled by donations from more than 13,000 individuals, to raise money for vital services for HIV/AIDS clients of Colorado AIDS Project and more than 30 other outstanding AIDS service organizations. The event serves as a day to remember those we have lost to the disease with prominent speakers and panels of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, in addition to a celebration of life with a festival, live music, sporting tournaments, food, and beverages.

Here's the schedule for the day

7:30a.m. - Registration opens
8:00a.m. - Vendors open
9:00a.m. - Opening Ceremony begins
9:15a.m. - Run Warm up begins (runners lined up on street)
9:30a.m. - Run Kick off
9:35a.m. - Walk step off following last runner
10:00a.m. - Beer Gardens open
10:00a.m. - Food vendors open
10:25a.m. - Runner Awards Ceremony
10:30a.m. - Volleyball tournament starts
10:30 a.m. - Entertainment Begins
4:00p.m. - Event Ends

PLANNED PARENTHOOD PARTICIPATES IN NATIONALLY RENOWNED ASPEN HEALTH FORUM

2009-07-24T15:05:00.001-06:00

PPRM welcomes its national organization, Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA), to Aspen this weekend for the world renowned Aspen Health Forum. PPFA joins several other of the world’s most prestigious health care organizations, providers, experts, advocates and reporters from across the country.

Said PPFA President Cecile Richards:

“We are leading the charge to ensure women are a priority in health care reform and that young people have the tools and information they need to protect themselves and lead healthy, productive lives. This forum provides a unique opportunity for health experts in various fields to share firsthand knowledge on improving the health and well-being of all Americans, regardless of age, gender and race.”

At the forum, Planned Parenthood leaders will lend their voices and expertise to panel discussions ranging from health care reform to teen temptations and innovative health outreach online.

The Aspen Health Forum is sponsored by TIME Magazine and the Aspen Institute. The Institute is known for bringing together world leaders and philosophers, executives, advocates and scholars to exchange ideas, distill insights and share new knowledge that will lead to better health and well-being for all Americans.

Click here for more information about the Aspen Health Forum.

Health Care Reform 7.28.09

2009-07-24T10:59:00.001-06:00

2009-07-23T11:32:00.000-06:00

Health Care Reform Ad

2009-07-21T19:12:00.000-06:00

Great LTE's from our friend Joyce

2009-07-20T12:49:00.002-06:00

Colorado Springs Gazette

Reproductive health care must be part of program

This is in response to the story, “Colorado’s health plan a model for the nation, HHS chief says.” Children in Colorado can count themselves as lucky with our Children’s Health Insurance Program. Children’s health does start with the health of their mothers, so let us not forget women’s health. Decisions about sex and family planning are central to a woman’s long-term health and well-being. It is crucial that members of Congress remember that for the majority of women in their child-bearing years, reproductive health care constitutes their primary care. For these women, their ob/gyns serve as primary care physicians. Reproductive health must be included in any health care reform package.

Women of child-bearing age spend 68 percent more in out-of-pocket health care costs than men, largely because of reproductive health-related needs. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, one in seven women (14 percent) has postponed an annual ob-gyn check-up because of the economy. In order for health care reform to be meaningful and to accomplish its simplest objective — ensure more Americans live healthier lives — Congress must see reproductive health care as primary care.

- Joyce Ruddy

Colorado Springs

http://www.gazette.com/opinion/fireworks-58552-local-police.html

Colorado Independent

Healthy priorities

Regarding "Dr. D.I.Y." (Cover story, July 2), thank you for featuring breastfeeding as an important step toward healthier babies and mothers. Decisions about sex and family planning are central to a woman's long-term health and well-being.

It is crucial for members of Congress to remember that for the majority of women in their child-bearing years, reproductive health care constitutes their primary care. For these women, their ob/gyns serve as primary care physicians. Reproductive health must be included in any health care reform package.

Women of child-bearing age spend 68 percent more in out-of-pocket health care costs than men, largely because of reproductive health-related needs. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, one in seven women (14 percent) has postponed an annual ob/gyn check-up because of the economy. In order for health care reform to be meaningful and to accomplish its simplest objective — ensure more Americans live healthier lives — Congress must see reproductive health care as primary care.

— Joyce Ruddy
Colorado Springs

http://www.csindy.com/colorado/letters/Content?oid=1385156

More good news!

2009-07-10T12:10:00.002-06:00

Earlier today the Senate Appropriations Committee voted 17-11 gave President Obama's executive order ending the Global Gag Rule the force of law. "That means the next Republican president would not be able to put the ban back in place with the stroke of a pen as has been recent practice."

You can read the entire story here: http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2009-07-09-foreign-aid_N.htm

Appeals Court: Pharmacists can't refuse Plan B

2009-07-10T08:44:00.002-06:00

Yesterday the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Pharmacists can't refuse to stock and sell Plan B:

"Pharmacists are obliged to dispense the Plan B pill, even if they are personally opposed to the 'morning after' contraceptive on religious grounds, a federal appeals court ruled Wednesday."

This is a huge win for us!

You can read the entire story here:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/la-na-pill-ruling9-2009jul09,0,6035241.story

The Health Care Debate

2009-07-02T10:58:00.003-06:00

As you know, health care reform is in full-swing in Washington. Right now, PPRM and PPFA nationally is fighting to make sure that health care reform strengthens and protects women’s health care, not weaken it.

PPFA is working to:
1) Ensure reproductive health care is covered as a benefit, and
2) Ensure essential community providers like Planned Parenthood are covered in whatever network or exchange is created.

There is growing pressure from the Republicans to take away existing benefits that most women have today. And, in a letter to Speaker Pelosi, 19 Democrats want to make sure that abortions aren't covered under the reform, check out this article: Conservative Democrats Warn Against Funding Abortion in Healthcare Reform.

If you want to get more involved in the fight for comprehensive health care reform visit click here to sign-up.

Too Few Americans Get HIV Test Early Enough

2009-06-26T08:53:00.001-06:00

Here's a great article about the importance of getting HIV tested! Saturday is National HIV Testing Day! Call 1.800.230.PLAN to get an appointment near you.

Late diagnosis costs lives that could be saved with powerful treatments, CDC says

THURSDAY, June 25 (HealthDay News) -- Too many Americans with HIV are diagnosed late in the course of their disease and miss out on the optimal benefit of effective treatments, U.S. health officials reported Thursday.

As many as 1 million Americans are infected with HIV, but up to a third don't know they have the disease because they haven't been tested for it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That's why the agency recommends that HIV testing be a routine part of any medical examination.

"People are learning about their HIV infection several years after being infected," explained lead researcher Dr. R. Luke Shouse, from the CDC's Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention in the National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention.

"This means that they may have unknowingly transmitted HIV," Shouse said. "It also means that there is a time when they had HIV when they were not under appropriate medical care, so there are missed opportunities for prevention and care."

The new report on HIV testing appears in the June 26 issue of the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, to coincide with National HIV Testing Day on June 27. The day promotes testing as an important strategy to prevent and control transmission of HIV in the United States, according to the CDC.

According to the report, which collected data on people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 34 states from 1996 to 2005, 38.3 percent of those diagnosed with HIV were diagnosed with AIDS within a year, and 6.7 percent were diagnosed with AIDS over the next two years.

Since progression from HIV to AIDS typically takes about 10 years without treatment, these findings highlight the importance of testing for HIV early, when antiretroviral treatments can deliver maximum benefit, Shouse said.

Minorities were more likely to be diagnosed late, compared with whites, and more minorities than whites progressed to AIDS within three years, the researchers found.

In addition, people whose initial HIV diagnosis occurred when they were older were more likely to progress to AIDS within three years. Men diagnosed with HIV were also more likely to develop AIDS within three years, the researchers noted.

"It's important to be tested for HIV -- routine screening for folks 13 years and above with regular medical visits, and at-risk populations should be screened annually," Shouse said.

Another report in the same issue of the CDC journal showed that too few high school students have been tested for HIV. In fact, only 12.9 percent of all students, and 22.3 percent of students who have had sex, have been tested, researchers found.

"When you look at the younger age groups, we estimate, a little under half of people 13-to-24 who are HIV-positive know they are infected," said lead researcher Andrew C. Voetsch, also from CDC's Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention.

That's about 50,000 people, Voetsch noted.

Voetsch said that to get more people tested, the message has to be reinforced with health-care providers, so public health agencies must educate health-care providers on the importance of testing. Also, people need to be educated about identifying HIV early, to get them into treatment and make them aware of how to protect their partners, he said.

A. David Paltiel, professor and acting division head of the Division of Health Policy and Administration at Yale University School of Medicine, said late testing is a problem that has been around for a long time.

"All of those people who are tested late have been unable to access drugs that would prolong their life," Paltiel said. "They are at much higher risk of the complications that actually kill people. This means a lot of mortality that could have been prevented."

Paltiel agreed that HIV testing should be a routine screening procedure. "There should be routine HIV testing for all sexually active adults and teenagers in all health-care settings," he said.

Routine HIV testing has been opposed because it stigmatizes people, Paltiel said.

"But now we've got these magnificent drugs that really do save lives, that really can reduce the transmission," he said. "So to the extent you make HIV screening routine, without singling people out, you may not only help save lives [and] reduce transmission, but you may destigmatize HIV testing."

National HIV Testing Day

2009-06-24T10:23:00.002-06:00

This Saturday, June 27, is National HIV Testing Day.

Why should we promote HIV testing? The answer may surprise you: According to the CDC, more than 1 million people in the U.S. are infected with HIV. Of those 1 million people living with HIV, 1 out of 5 do not know they are infected. (People who have HIV but don't know it can unknowingly pass the virus to their partners.)

As of September 2008, there were 6,102 people known to be living with HIV in the state of Colorado alone. Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains administered 11,150 HIV tests in that same year – with an estimated 4.9 million people living in the state, that’s not nearly enough.

In honor of National HIV Testing Day, I ask you: When was the last time (if ever) you took an HIV test? If your answer is “never” or “not recently,” I encourage you to make a serious change and take an HIV test. And to then share your testing experience with friends and family to help encourage them to get tested.

According to the Guttmacher Institute, stigma remains a barrier to people getting testing. As June 27 approaches, please join me and the entire Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains community in changing this stigma. Starting, and furthermore continuing, a dialogue about sexual health can be a powerful tool in encouraging change to make our lives healthier. With your help, we can encourage people to act to help reduce stigma and promote HIV testing.

NATASHA Z. DADABHOY
Marketing & Media Relations Intern
Planned Parenthood of The Rocky Mountains

Why we work for Planned Parenthood

2009-06-19T11:09:00.001-06:00

I’m incredibly proud to be a male working at Planned Parenthood of The Rocky Mountains. My work in fundraising as the director of the Annual Fund not only utilizes my skills in building relationships between PPRM and our donors but also shows me the direct impact a donor has in furthering PPRM’s mission to provide the information, education and services for people to make responsible choices.

And, as a male I want to be responsible to myself and others. Through my work, I am proud to further the support and teaching of comprehensive, medically accurate and age-appropriate sex education. Men’s Health Week provides the perfect opportunity to encourage our fathers, brothers and friends to understand their part in ensuring not only their own reproductive and sexual health but also the reproductive and sexual health of their partners.

RICK WEST
Annual Fund Director
Planned Parenthood of The Rocky Mountains

Definitions of Masculinity

2009-06-18T10:06:00.005-06:00

In honor of Men’s Health Week I encourage all men, friends, and family of men, to exam your definitions of masculinity. In addition to reminding the men in your lives about screenings and symptoms of preventable diseases, look at your own behavior and try to recognize the subtle ways in which you reinforce harmful and self-destructive masculinities. For example, in an attempt to keep up the appearance of strength, independence, invulnerability, and toughness, many men may avoid the doctor’s office and downplay symptoms of illness.

Encourage men to live outside the gender box. Demonstrate through language and behavior that it’s OK for men to be vulnerable, to need the care of others, and to reach out for help. By doing so you are giving them the tools to stay healthy. It is my hope as a male educator for PPRM that when I present to youth (about STDs, Birth Control methods etc.) they learn more than the topics that I’m covering that day. I hope they learn that it is OK for a man to be concerned, and proactive about sexual health.

Phillip Tatum
Education Program Specialist
Planned Parenthood of The Rocky Mountains

June is Men’s Health Month - Men’s Health Matters

2009-06-17T10:41:00.000-06:00

June is Men's Health Month, a month dedicated to encourage men and boys to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury...

Proud to be a male working at Planned Parenthood

2009-06-16T12:02:00.004-06:00

I’m incredibly proud to be a male working at Planned Parenthood Of The Rocky Mountains. My work as the program manager of our Speakers Bureau and Project Prevention programs allows me to see many aspects of the work we do. I’m often out the community, giving a presentation, or in our of our health centers providing one-on-one education to our clients. We serve many males in the Community Education department and are always looking for ways to reach out to even more.

Unfortunately, it’s been a struggle for me to recruit more males to come in and access services within our health centers. There are a lot of inherent challenges in recruiting males. In our society, males are simply not conditioned or encouraged to seek preventative medical care. Males are also taught to hide or ignore pain and discomfort (both of which can be warning signs of more significant medical issues). Finally, males are often given the message, from an early age, that having many sexual experiences and partners is expectation of being male (even though it greatly increases the risk of STD infection and/or unintended pregnancy). The way we, as a society, condition our males simply has to change.

At PPRM we make an effort to change perceptions and educate everyone about sexual health and Men’s Health Week is a great time to encourage others in the community to do just that. I’m asking to join me and reach out to the males in your life. Encourage them to be advocates for their own sexual health care. Together we can we help all males find a place in the world of reproductive and sexual health.

JOHN EDWARD NELSON
Project Prevention & Speakers Bureau Program Manager

PLANNED PARENTHOOD CELEBRATES NATIONAL MEN’S HEALTH WEEK

2009-06-15T13:57:00.000-06:00

As a former physician for Planned Parenthood in New Jersey and as a volunteer and supporter of Planned Parenthood of Southern Nevada, I feel that it is very important for all of us to recognize the importance of Men’s Health Week. So often people think of Planned Parenthood as only a place where women can seek reproductive services like birth control and while that is very true, Planned Parenthood is so much more. Planned Parenthood is a great place for men to go for their reproductive health care needs as well. As a man affiliated with Planned Parenthood for many years, and as someone who has worked in the field of health care, I cannot stress enough the importance of men taking care of themselves. Therefore it is important to increase awareness about preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of diseases that affect men.

At Planned Parenthood all people are welcome and that is what is so wonderful about the services they provide. They are affordable, convenient, and confidential.

So please, in honor of Father’s Day on June 21st, encourage all of the men in your life to make sure that they are doing what they need to do to stay healthy.

Donald S. Kwalick M.D., M.P.H.

Passing of Dr. Tiller

2009-06-06T13:37:00.001-06:00

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains:

“We are deeply saddened by the murder of Dr. George Tiller. While he was not a Planned Parenthood provider, he was an integral part of the women’s health community and his loss is felt by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and others close to him including his dedicated and courageous staff. His death is an enormous loss for the patients who relied on him, the medical community and for women and their families across America.

Today our thoughts are with those who were closest to Dr. Tiller as friends, family and colleagues take time to reflect on an individual, a hero to many, who had the courage to stand firm against unbelievable adversity. Dr. Tiller’s passing is a great loss to the reproductive health care community; his larger-than-life compassion and unwavering perseverance will be missed by those who knew him or knew what he stood for.”

STATEMENT ON THE MURDER OF DR. GEORGE TILLER

2009-06-01T15:14:00.003-06:00

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains:

“We are deeply saddened by the murder of Dr. George Tiller. While he was not a Planned Parenthood provider, he was an integral part of the women’s health community and his loss is felt by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and others close to him including his dedicated and courageous staff. His death is an enormous loss for the patients who relied on him, the medical community and for women and their families across America.”

Planned Parenthood Federation of America statement:

Cecile Richards, President of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, issued the following statement on the murder of reproductive health care provider Dr. George Tiller in Wichita, KS.

“The entire Planned Parenthood family is deeply saddened by the murder of Dr. George Tiller.
Dr. Tiller was the epitome of high quality medical care underscored by deep compassion for his patients. He provided critical reproductive health care services, including abortion services to women facing some of the most difficult medical circumstances. He was continually harassed by abortion opponents for much of his career - his clinic was burned down, he was shot by a health center protestor, and he was recently targeted for investigation only to be acquitted by a jury just a few months ago. None of this stopped George Tiller from his commitment to providing women and their families with compassionate care that others were unwilling to offer.”

- More articles about Dr. Tiller

PLANNED PARENTHOOD CHIMES IN ON NOMINATION OF JUDGE SONIA SOTOMAYOR TO THE U.S. SUPREME COURT

2009-05-26T15:17:00.000-06:00

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains joins Planned Parenthood Federation of America’s (PPFA) in honoring today’s U.S. Supreme Court nomination.

Said PPFA’s President Cecile Richards:

“This historic nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court sends a strong signal that President Obama understands the importance of ensuring that our Supreme Court justices respect precedent while also protecting our civil liberties.

Judge Sotomayor has vast experience in nearly every aspect of the law, having served as a big-city prosecutor and a corporate litigator, a federal trial judge on the U.S. District Court, and an appellate judge on the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. What our nation needs from our Supreme Court justices is a deep understanding of the law, an appreciation of the impact of the court’s decisions on everyday Americans, and a commitment to the protection of our individual liberties. Judge Sotomayor will bring this dedication and commitment with her to the bench.

There is no doubt that Judge Sotomayor’s story is an inspiration to all. Her nomination as the first Hispanic woman justice reminds us that, with hard work and commitment, all things are truly possible in America.”

After being announced, Judge Sotomayor turned to the president to say: "My heart today is bursting with gratitude for all that you have done for me." She described her selection as "the most humbling honor of my life."

Have an inquiring mind and want to learn more?

The Washington Post captures Sotomayor’s acceptance speech.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video/2009/05/26/VI2009052601168.html?sid=ST2009052600912

Or catch the New York Times’ slide show.

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2009/05/26/us/20090526-SOTOMAYORPRESS_index.html

No Federal Funds for Schools That Provide Sound Medical Advice?

2009-05-20T23:56:00.004-06:00

U.S. Rep Doug Lamborn, R-Colo, would apparently rather deny our children an adequate education due to lack of federal funding, than that students of childbearing age be given the option of avoiding an unwanted pregnancy.

With House Bill 2458, the “Schoolchildren’s Protection Act,” Lamborn cited taxpayer morals as a driving force behind proposed legislation to deny funds to schools that would provide emergency contraception or a prescription for emergency contraception.

How about this, Doug: Leave morals to those of us with an innate sense of right and wrong for ourselves and our families. Educate our youth and you will have fewer of those unintended pregnancies to deal with in the first place.

Here's a case you don't see every day

2009-05-12T00:07:00.002-06:00

Imagine going to your OB/GYN for an abortion, and then, Surprise!, you have a baby anyway. Was any harm done? For sure, your life is WAAAAYYY different than it was before you had the baby.

That's exactly what happened to a woman in Colorado, who brought a malpractice suit against her doctor. The trial court threw out the case, saying that there was no injury, and thus no claim. Their reasoning, agreeing with the doctor, was that since the child was healthy, no harm was done.

Wow.

The Colorado Court of Appeals, however, disagreed. They didn't rule on whether the plaintiff could collect damages based on some real injury, but they did rule that a valid case was brought and that the lower court should have decided.

Presumably this one will go back to trial.

Happy Women’s Health Week

2009-05-11T11:26:00.001-06:00

Click here to see Governor Ritter’s proclamation

Click here to find a health center near you and make an appointment.

Title X Recieves $10 Million Increase; Abstinence-only defunded

2009-05-07T15:03:00.001-06:00

From our buddies at NFPRHA:

"Today, the president released his detailed FY 2010 budget request to Congress, which includes a $10 million increase for the Title X program...

In a significant victory for evidenced-based programs, the budget does reflect the President's intention to defund ineffective abstinence-only programs. It eliminates funding for all three of these harmful programs and replaces them with new programs that invest in evidence-based approaches to address the serious public health challenges posed by our increased rates of unintended and teen pregnancy and STIs...

Other provisions from the president's FY 2010 Budget include:

Flat funding for the Maternal and Child Health Program, Community Health Centers and Family Violence Prevention and Services.
A $5 million decrease in funding for the Social Services Block Grants.
Leaves in place existing restrictions on federal funding for abortion care.
Expands eligibility for Medicaid-funded family planning services for women aged 15-44 with family incomes at or below 200% of the Federal poverty level."

Obama's Budget Calls for Small Increase in Title X

2009-05-07T14:56:00.000-06:00

President Obama released his budget today and the outlook is somewhat bleak for family planning....

Hayden and Bristol

2009-05-07T10:31:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy. The Candies (yes the shoe company) Foundation held a town hall meeting with their Teen Ambassadors Bristol Palin and Hayden Panettiere (Heroes).

We all know that Bristol is all about abstinence NOW (little late Bristol) but when asked if she was an abstinence only proponent Hayden skirted the question

'There's a lot of different viewpoints on sex, and I'm not someone who will ever boo-hoo anything or say, 'This is not right,' or, 'This is wrong,'' she said.

'You're going to do what you're going to do, but at the end of the day, it's okay as long as you educate yourself, as long as you're safe, as long as you're smart.

'It's a topic that's not talked about enough,' she said.

'This is just a human thing. It's natural, it's what everyone does, but most people don't realize how serious things are until it directly impacts them and their lives or the lives of the people around them, and I think this is one of those things where as a young female you go, 'Oh, it'll never happen to me, oh, it happens to people, but it'll never happen to me,' and then it does happen.'”

Nicely put Hayden. At PP we teach abstinence first and REAL sex ed.

PLANNED PARENTHOOD CALLS FOR COMPREHENSIVE SEX EDUCATION ON EIGHTH ANNUAL NATIONAL DAY TO PREVENT TEEN PREGNANCY

2009-05-06T13:57:00.001-06:00

U.S. Has Highest Rate of Teen Pregnancies Among the Most Developed Nations

Denver, Colo — In recognition of the eighth annual National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) today called for public funding of comprehensive, medically accurate sex education programs to reduce the alarming rate of unintended teen pregnancies in this country.

“Teens deserve honest, accurate, age-appropriate information about how to protect themselves,” said Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains (PPRM) President and CEO Vicki Cowart. “They need sex education that provides information about healthy communication, responsible decision making, as well as abstinence and contraception as ways to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.”

The U.S. teen birthrate increased for the second year in a row, according to data released in March by the National Center for Health Statistics. The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy reports the U.S. has the highest rates of teen pregnancy among comparable countries. An estimated 750,000 American teens become pregnant each year.

Planned Parenthood affiliate educators nationwide reach more than 1.2 million young people and adults with medically accurate sex education each year. As a trusted health care provider, Planned Parenthood knows firsthand the power of education to help teens make responsible decisions about their health. Every year we provide three million women, men, and teens nationwide with health information and services to prevent unintended pregnancy and protect their health.

PPRM alone works with more than 200 organizations annually, providing educational outreach to school districts, religious organizations and high-risk youth throughout Colorado, Wyoming, Southern Nevada and Northern New Mexico.

Planned Parenthood is a 2009 national partner of the National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, an effort to help teens understand the importance of avoiding unintended pregnancy. May is also National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month. To raise awareness about teen pregnancy and the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, the Denver Teen Pregnancy Prevention Partnership, comprised of community partners including PPRM, is hosting a city-wide art contest. The artwork will be displayed at the Museo de las Americas on May 7. Proceeds will benefit the Denver Teen Pregnancy Prevention Partnership, which aims to reduce teenage pregnancy by providing comprehensive, scientifically-based pregnancy prevention education to youth in targeted Denver Public Schools.

Providing teens and young people with the information they need to make responsible decisions is the commonsense solution to reducing unintended teen pregnancy. Numerous studies have analyzed abstinence-only programs and found them to be ineffective.

A study conducted by the University of Washington found that teens who had comprehensive sex education were 50 percent less likely to become pregnant than teens who had no sex education or who were in abstinence-only programs. A study by The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy reports that two-thirds of the examined sex education programs that focus on both abstinence and contraception had a positive effect on teen sexual behavior. And a 2008 Guttmacher Institute report found that most abstinence programs did not delay initiation of sexual activity.

President Barack Obama has consistently supported comprehensive and age-appropriate sex education. As a senator, President Obama was an original co-sponsor of the Prevention First Act, which would ensure that all taxpayer-funded federal programs are medically accurate and include information about contraception.

The May 7 event will be held in Denver at the Museo de las Américas, beginning at 6 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.myspace.com/DTPPP or contact Jocelyn Martinez at jmartinez@coappp.org. For more information about the National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, please visit The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.

# # #

Planned Parenthood Federation of America is the nation's leading sexual and reproductive health care advocate and provider. We believe that everyone has the right to choose when or whether to have a child, and that every child should be wanted and loved. Planned Parenthood affiliates operate nearly 880 health centers nationwide, providing medical services and sexuality education for millions of women, men, and teenagers each year. We also work with allies worldwide to ensure that all women and men have the right and the means to meet their sexual and reproductive health care needs.

Let's be real about Plan B

2009-04-30T11:40:00.001-06:00

High-Five to President Obama!

2009-04-29T13:17:00.002-06:00

Earlier this week President of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Cecile Richards, released Planned Parenthood's Top Ten List for President Obama's First 100 Days.

Drum roll please...
10. Repealed the global gag rule
9. Moved to overturn the HHS midnight regulation
8. Supporting teens' health over ideology
7. Expanding access to family planning
6. Restored affordable birth control
5. Formed the White House Council on Women and Girls
4. Nominated strong women's champions to key cabinet posts
3. Expanding access to Plan B
2. Focusing on AIDS outreach
1. Committed to Health Care reform

You can read Cecile's full blog post and learn more about the top 10 list by clicking here

Sec. Hillary Clinton Defends Reproductive Rights and Family Planning

2009-04-24T13:14:00.001-06:00

GYT Interview

2009-04-22T13:28:00.000-06:00

Interview with Monica from PPRM. ***Note*** The phone number should be 1.800.230.PLAN.

$5 Testing Today!!

2009-04-21T10:33:00.001-06:00

The Vagina Monologues - Denver

2009-04-17T12:37:00.002-06:00

Senate Bill 225 signed into Colorado law!

2009-04-17T10:11:00.005-06:00

Governor Ritter signed SB 225 into Colorado law and we couldn't be more excited! If you are as happy as we are, and I'm sure you are, please follow the link to send your thanks.

Thanks for the support,
-PPRM

You don't even have to touch the penis!

2009-04-15T23:23:00.003-06:00

a condom applicator designed to help AIDS prevention has been named the Most Beautiful Object in South Africa by Dutch designer Jurgen Bey....

The applicator, invented by Willem van Rensburg and designed by industrial designer Roelf Mulder of South Africa’s XYZ Design, allows a condom to be put on easily and rapidly.

The user holds the device with the thumb and forefinger of both hands, pulling the condom down over the penis in a single rapid movement. See video demonstrations of the product here and here.

It is hoped the design will encourage the use of condoms, thereby helping reduce the spread of AIDS.

Taking the Pill at school, how dare you!

2009-04-14T12:19:00.002-06:00

A high school student in Fairfax, VA (suburb of DC) recently received a 2-week suspension for popping the Pill during lunch.

Here's the best part, if she was caught with an illegal drug--heroin, LSD, etc, she would have only received a 5-day suspension. The penalty for being caught take the pill is the same if this girl-- who is a straight A student and lettered athlete-- would have brought a gun to school.

Ridiculous!

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/04/AR2009040402591_pf.html

Need health care? Try Planned Parenthood

2009-04-04T23:30:00.000-06:00

As the recession leaves more people without insurance, family planning clinics across the country have become, for many, the first option for general medical checkups.

GYT09.org

2009-04-02T14:34:00.001-06:00

MTV Shows

Gee Why Tee...

2009-04-01T15:22:00.000-06:00

Don't be a statistic: Get tested for STDs, health experts say : CU News : ColoradoDaily.com Boulder, CO

2009-03-30T18:31:00.001-06:00

Don't be a statistic: Get tested for STDs, health experts say : CU News : ColoradoDaily.com Boulder, CO

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Are condoms effective?...uh...does the Pope live in Rome?

2009-03-30T15:33:00.002-06:00

(CNN) -- Critics took to the social networking site Facebook to voice their fury over Pope Benedict's remark that condoms do not prevent HIV...