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To proclaim September as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month in the City of Columbus and to recognize the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals, Beyond the Cell, and the Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association for their advocacy and commitment to bringing awareness to Sickle Cell Disease.
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WHEREAS, the observance of National Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month originated in 1975 with month-long events to call attention to Sickle Cell Disease and the need to address the illness nationally and locally; and
WHEREAS, Sickle Cell Disease is a global health problem affecting more than 100,000 people in the United States, touching people of all races and in some characterized by chronic fatigue and pain; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated that more than 1,000 babies are born with Sickle Cell Disease in the United States each year; thus the need for education and awareness - and while much has been done to improve treatment, lower complications, and to reduce symptoms for persons afflicted with this disease, there continues to be a gap in care, and a continuing need for ongoing innovation, treatment, research, and a cure; and
WHEREAS, the Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association (OSCHA) was incorporated in 1977; the association was originally established to assist with providing a payment mechanism for medically indigent adults affected with Sickle Cell Disease; and
WHEREAS, the mission of the Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association is to provide education and statewide support to individuals and families affected by Sickle Cell Disease; this is achieved through a commitment and consistent focus to testing, counseling, referrals, and advocacy; and
WHEREAS, blood transfusions are the most common and effective treatment for Sickle Cell Disease - the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals remains committed to ensuring that Central Ohio has a strong and diverse blood supply which is achieved through the hosting and promoting of blood drives; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals is also committed to spreading awareness regarding the importance of donating blood, and its impact and necessity for the treatment of many health conditions such as Sickle Cell Disease; and
WHEREAS, Beyond the Cell is a movement that is dedicated to increasing education and awareness regarding Sickle Cell Disease - Beyond the Cell harnesses the power of creativity and community to impact lives - by sharing resources and creating a platform where individuals living with or impacted by Sickle Cell Disease can see themselves, share their stories and be inspired to own their truth, claim their power and to live out loud; and
WHEREAS, Beyond the Cell is launching its annual “Life Drive” to be held during the month of September; this blood drive is designed to educate, encourage and empower communities of color and beyond, to not only give blood, but to give the gift of life; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals and the Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association is in support of Beyond the Cell and its “Life Drive” efforts; moreover, each of these organizations remains committed to continuing to promote the donation of blood for the use of life saving treatments for Sickle Cell Disease; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby proclaim September as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month in the City of Columbus and recognizes the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals, Beyond the Cell, and the Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association for their advocacy and commitment to bringing awareness to Sickle Cell Disease.
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