Our Annual Stomach Cancer Capitol Hill Advocacy Day

Advocacy Creates Progress

Join Debbie’s Dream Foundation for the 15th Annual Stomach Cancer Capitol Hill Advocacy Day, February 28–March 3, 2027, in Washington, D.C.

Each year, patients, survivors, caregivers, advocates, clinicians, researchers, and supporters come together on Capitol Hill to share their experiences with members of Congress and advocate for policies that advance stomach cancer research, prevention, early detection, and better outcomes.

No advocacy experience is required. DDF provides the training, resources, and support you need to make your voice heard and schedules your congressional meetings for you.

Registration closes January 18, 2027.

What to Expect

Our Stomach Cancer Capitol Hill Advocacy Day is an incredible bonding experience for all who attend. The more voices we can bring to the Capitol, the more powerful our message will be.

Day 1 – Travel Day – February 28, 2027

• Arrive in DC by the afternoon and attend our Welcome Reception held at the event hotel.

Day 2 – Training Day – March 1, 2027

• We’ll start the day with breakfast, followed by an Advocacy Training session so that you understand how congressional meetings work and to prepare for your meetings with your members of Congress. During the training, we will help you fine-tune your story into a powerful advocacy tool and teach you how to ask Congress to do what we need: increase federal funding for stomach cancer research. The most crucial part of the meetings is telling your personal story about how stomach cancer has impacted you. You will also have time to meet the rest of your group, who will be in the congressional meetings with you.
• The Patient Retreat will begin after lunch, during which we will provide tools and resources to help you manage your journey with stomach cancer, from nutrition tips to emotional wellness skills.
• The day will conclude with dinner, during which you will have ample time to socialize and meet others affected by stomach cancer.

Day 3 – Capitol Hill Day – Tuesday, March 2, 2027

• Join the Send-off Breakfast where we’ll provide you with fuel for the day and answer any last-minute questions about your schedule for meeting with your members of Congress.
• 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Meetings on the Hill – We will turn Capitol Hill periwinkle! You will not be alone. We will arrange group meetings for you to sit down with your elected officials and/or their staff, and we will provide you with all the resources you need to succeed. Expect to attend meetings on Capitol Hill until at least 5 p.m. during our day on the Hill.
• We’ll conclude with a celebratory Hill Day Reception and prepare for departure later that evening.

Day 4 – Travel Day – Wednesday,  March 3, 2027

• Depart Washington, D.C., and travel home after an impactful few days of advocacy, connection, and community.