Pryor Middle School 8th grader Atleigh King recently traveled to Washington, D.C., with members of her family to represent the bleeding disorders community and the Oklahoma Hemophilia Foundation.
During their March 4–6 visit, Atleigh and her family met with staff from the offices of Senator Markwayne Mullin, Senator James Lankford, Representative Josh Brecheen, Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, and Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas. They were invited into meeting rooms at the Capitol to discuss important issues that affect not only the bleeding disorders community, but also many individuals and families living with chronic illnesses. 
The trip gave Atleigh and her family the opportunity to speak up for Oklahomans impacted by bleeding disorders and help raise awareness about the needs of those living with ongoing medical conditions. Among the topics discussed was the HELP Copays Act, a bill related to improving access to financial assistance for medical expenses.
For Atleigh and her family, the experience was especially personal. Atleigh, her brother, her sister, her nephew, and her mother have all been diagnosed with hemophilia. Their advocacy brought an important voice to the conversation and highlighted the real-life impact bleeding disorders can have on families across Oklahoma.
Pryor Middle School Principal Shawn Matheson said that he is proud of Atleigh for representing her community in such a meaningful way through advocacy, leadership, and service.