President Milanović at ceremony marking 45th anniversary of Association of Multiple Sclerosis Societies of Croatia: “Your fight is justified and yields results”
The President of the Republic Zoran Milanović attended today a ceremony marking the 45th anniversary of the activities of the Association of Multiple Sclerosis Societies of Croatia.
In his address, President Milanović underlined, among others, the importance of the persistent advocacy of patients’ rights and strengthening of associations that fight to improve the quality of life of their members.
He also emphasized that many years of experience and work with people often bring the realization that many aspects of life are not exclusively cognitive, but are based on instinct, feeling and practical experience. He especially praised the positive energy and atmosphere he felt among those gathered, despite the challenges they face.
“When I enter a room full of people, I instinctively feel the mood, whether it is joy or depression. Here I felt a good atmosphere as if you are not carrying the weight on your shoulders, even though you certainly face multiple challenges”, President Milanović noted, stressing the importance of solidarity and community.
Speaking about the Association’s achievements, the President singled out the right to treatment from the first symptoms of the disease, which, he stated, was one of the key issues discussed during past meetings. He also pointed out that the achievement in that area is the result of the dedicated work of the Association, and he praised their legitimate social pressure that contributed to changes in the healthcare system.
“This is an example of the success of your work, and therefore a confirmation that your fight is justified. Your work and existence are meaningful in themselves, and what you have accomplished shows how important it is to continue to fight for your rights”, he added.
In concluding his speech, President Milanović wished them to continue on their way, persistently advocating the interests of the patients.
Speaking at the ceremony besides President Milanović were the president of the Association of Multiple Sclerosis Societies Željko Pudić, the president of the Forum of Young People with MS Nina Stipčević, the president of the Association’s Expert Committee for Medical Issues Vanja Bašić Kes, professor of Psychology Boris Blažinić, the Assistant Director of the Croatian Institute for Public Health Tomislav Benjak, the Ombudsman for Persons with Disabilities Darijo Jurišić, the head of the Service for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities of the Ministry of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy Marija Borovec, Krapine-Zagorje County-prefect Željko Kolar, and member of the Croatian Parliament and delegate of the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament Ljubica Lukačić.
The Association of Croatian Multiple Sclerosis Societies, which is celebrating its 45th anniversary this year, is a non-partisan, non-governmental, non-profit and social organization that implements programmes and projects to improve the quality of life of people suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. By promoting better practices and policies, the Association also builds partnerships with local communities, civil society, as well as government institutions and the private sector.
Alongside President Milanović was the Adviser to the President for Education Jadranka Žarković.
PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia