Title
Proclamation commending Stephanie Mosco for her extensive efforts to raise money for ALS research.
Body
WHEREAS, each year, approximately 5,600 individuals in the United States are diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as “Lou Gehrig's Disease”; and
WHEREAS, ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in the gradual loss of control of the body's muscles, and eventually resulting in paralysis and death; and
WHEREAS, in 2003, Pittsburgh resident Stephanie Mosco lost her uncle, Andrew Nodaros, to ALS; and
WHEREAS, her uncle's 16-month fight with the disease prompted Stephanie, her mother (Faye Nodaros Mosco), and Andrew's friend Dave Eltschlager, another individual stricken with ALS, to begin raising money to donate to the Center for ALS Research; and
WHEREAS, for the past six years, Stephanie, along with her family and friends, has held annual benefits to raise awareness about ALS and collect money for ALS research; and
WHEREAS, to date, more than $230,000 in benefit proceeds has been donated to the Center for ALS Research; and
WHEREAS, this year's benefit will be held on October 11, 2008 at J. Vernon Studios in Pittsburgh's South Side neighborhood;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council hereby commends Ms. Stephanie Mosco for her commitment to raising awareness about ALS and for her continued dedication to raising money for ALS research. You are truly an inspiration to the Members of this Council and to all the residents of Allegheny County.