Medical Center

A RESOLUTION recognizing National Mesothelioma Awareness Day as September 26.
WHEREAS, mesothelioma is a deadly cancer which invades the lining of the lungs or abdomen until it destroys the vital organs and is directly related to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma kills 3,000 Americans each year, and according to the National Cancer Institute, about 2,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in the United States; and
WHEREAS, September 26 has been designated Mesothelioma Awareness Day by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, a national nonprofit collaboration of patients and families, physicians, advocates, and researchers dedicated to eradicating the life-ending and vicious effects of mesothelioma. The Foundation promotes research, supports patients and caregivers, and disseminates the latest clinical information. In addition, the Foundation also holds an annual symposium to bring the world’s leading mesothelioma experts together to discuss advances in treatment. September 26 was chosen as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day because it is the wedding anniversary of a Pennsylvania widow who spent countless hours making others aware of the deadly disease that claimed her husband’s life. Numerous other states are also recognizing September 26; and

WHEREAS, among those who have fallen victim to this disease in the Commonwealth are former legislator Ron Cyrus; Todd Hall, a bright, young University of Kentucky graduate who had started a successful business; Allen Conley, a naval architect and marine engineer exposed to asbestos in the Yorktown, Virginia Naval shipbuilding yards; and an unnamed, respected Prestonsburg High School teacher who was supposedly exposed to asbestos in the school. Current attempts to treat the disease generally have only a limited effect, especially if not detected early, and the expected survival rate is between four and fourteen months; and
WHEREAS, for decades asbestos was heavily used by the Navy, in construction, industry, and even in household products and appliances. It is still present in many homes, schools, and office buildings throughout the United States, especially those built prior to 1990. At least 40 countries have banned the use of asbestos and have established methods for tracking the disease and exposure sources. The United Sates has not yet done so, and asbestos is still permitted in imports; various products, such as automobile brake linings which release fibers into the air in high-traffic areas; and consumer goods. During the collapse of the World Trade Center Towers, 400 tons of pulverized asbestos were released in the dust that spread over lower Manhattan. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, and deterioration can also release asbestos from structures and buildings into the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency and the World Health Organization have repeatedly called for updated regulations and tighter controls for using and handling asbestos; and
WHEREAS, raising awareness about mesothelioma will play a key role in prevention, treatment, and educating others and will result in better health for all individuals in the Commonwealth and throughout the nation;
NOW, THEREFORE,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky:

Section 1. The House of Representatives recognizes September 26 as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day and commends all individuals who have taken an active role in carrying out the goals of educating others about the dangers relating to asbestos.
Section 2. The House of Representatives applauds the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation for its ongoing efforts to promote awareness of mesothelioma and to find treatments to restore health to individuals affected by the disease.
Section 3. The Clerk of the House of Representatives is directed to transmit one copy of this Resolution to Mrs. Yvonne Hall, 5365 Stewart Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40516-9519; one copy to Mrs. Shirley Watley, 33 Mitchell Lane, Leburn, Kentucky, 41831; and one copy to Ms. Jeni Piccolo, Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, P.O. Box 91840, Santa Barbara, CA 93190.