Hi friends,

If there’s one constant in our work, it’s change—especially in how we communicate, advocate and drive impact. This year, shifts in federal priorities, changes to research and federal programs, and an increasingly fragmented media landscape remind us that our role as storytellers and strategists is more critical than ever. In times of uncertainty, clarity and conviction matter. For us at CURA, that means staying laser-focused on what truly moves the needle: communication rooted in evidence and elevating the voices of patients with lived experience.

This quarter’s work reflects that commitment. We amplified the Fontan community’s urgent need for research at CHOP’s Cardiology Conference, drove bipartisan dialogue on obesity care access, and centered Black maternal health in national media. We’re proving that even in a challenging environment, meaningful stories break through. When political friction dominates headlines, we help our clients pivot to solutions—like NMFA’s push for military spouse employment or influencing organ donation policies with the PKD Foundation. And when trust in institutions wavers, we double down on evidence, whether through ACC’s breakthrough cardiovascular research or the promise of Heartbeat Health’s virtual cardiology program changing the treatment paradigm.

None of this happens by accident. It takes a team that’s collaborative, creative and relentless in turning challenges into opportunities. (Case in point: our Washington Business Journal recognition as a Best Place to Work—a testament to the culture that fuels our impact.)

So, as we navigate this dynamic moment together, let’s remember: change isn’t just something we adapt to. It’s something we shape. Here’s to continuing the fight for a healthier America—one story, one policy win and one patient at a time.

Onward,

Anne

P.S. Want to see—and feel—the impact of our work in under two minutes?

Our new sizzle reel is here and it’s pure energy. From patient advocacy wins to media milestones, this video captures the heart of what we do: turning stories into action and policy into progress.

Raising Awareness for Fontan Research in the Most Magical Place on Earth

Landing coverage at ACC.25

Supporting the PKD Community

CURA proudly supported the PKD Foundation during their Advocacy Week this March. Patients, researchers, caregivers and advocates from across the country convened in Washington, D.C., and virtually, to urge lawmakers to prioritize critical research funding and policies that promote organ donation. The PKD Foundation’s Advocacy event—now in its fourth year— has continued to amplify the voices of the PKD community from coast to coast.

Fighting for Greater Access to Lifesaving Care

Elevating Maternal Health Equity Through Media

elevating Black-led, community-based maternal care services and raising awareness of the key role Ob hospitalists play in increasing birth access and equity. By centering on data and lived experiences, CURA brought critical issues to the forefront, driving greater awareness and action to advance maternal health equity. Check out some of the coverage in Essence, Black Health Matters, and BlackDoctor.org!

The Results Are In: Heartbeat Health is Redefining Cardiovascular Care

Amplifying Military Spouse Voices on Capitol Hill

They will educate and show lawmakers support for key quality of life priorities impacting service members and their families, such as employment opportunities for spouses. CURA is looking forward to helping NMFA organize their Capitol Hill Day and providing training and resources for first-time advocates.

Best Place to Work 🏆

Discussing Health Policy with SHPYP

CURA joined forces with the Society of Health Policy Young Professionals (SHPYP) to co-host a policy forum focused on health policy and patient advocacy in the 119^th Congress. Featuring a dynamic panel of bipartisan staffers and health care advocates, the discussion explored the future of federal health care legislation, funding priorities and the pivotal role of patient voices in policymaking.

Moderator: Scott Leezer, SVP @ CURA Strategies

Panelists (left to right): Heidi Ross, VP of Policy & Regulatory Affairs @ NORD, Lauren Drew, Sr. Director of Congressional Relations @ the National Kidney Foundation, Brayden Woods, Legislative Director for Rep. Beth Van Duyne, Ashley John, Director of Issue Advocacy @ Novartis, John Chambliss, Policy Advisor to Sen. Alex Padilla

Local to the D.C. area and interested in joining SHPYP?

Supporting the Urologic Community on the Hill

This quarter, CURA’s Anne Woodbury and Scott Leezer spoke at the American Urological Association’s Patient Advocacy Connections Program in Washington, D.C., where they emphasized the critical role of patient advocacy in driving policy change and improving health outcomes. The program culminated in a powerful Hill Day, where patients and caregivers stood alongside urologists to champion policies that support the urologic community. They also used our Advocacy Academy to prepare the advocates. Contact us if you want to learn more about using it to train your advocates. 

Hole in One! ⛳

The CURA team kicked off Q1 with an action-packed retreat about our 2024 wins and 2025 strategic initiatives and ways we can provide exceptional service to our clients. We wrapped the day with indoor mini golf at Swingers.

Time Flies! Celebrating Our Q1 CURAversaries

Welcome to the Team! 🌟

Have questions? Message us!

If you need communications or advocacy support, we are here for you! We’ll work with you to develop a strategy and choose the right tools to help you achieve your organization’s goals. Send us a message!