Title
Proclamation recognizing Children's Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc. for providing children and families with quality programs that support sickle cell patients.
Body
WHEREAS, the Children's Sickle Cell Foundation, Incorporated is the only organization in our region dedicated solely to the welfare of children with sickle cell disease and to bettering the lives of the families of these children; and
WHEREAS, Andrea Williams began the organization in 2002 after she had been an advocate for her child who was diagnosed with sickle cell; Ms. Williams taught other parents of children with sickle cell that raising awareness was the only way to better their children's lives; and
WHEREAS, the foundation's main programs - the Free Education Support Program, the Swim Program and the Family Support Program - empower the children and the families to succeed in combating the disease;
WHEREAS, the organization's Annual Legislative Luncheon was held on April 30, 2009 to describe to community leaders how advocacy and research greatly impact those affected by the disease; and
WHEREAS, because of this foundation, awareness and support of sickle cell has spread widely within our community, allowing those with the disease to benefit from the help of others;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Allegheny County Council, on behalf of the citizens of the County, hereby commends the people of Children's Sickle Cell Foundation, Incorporated for their dedicated effort to raising our community's understanding of this dangerous disease.