TITLE: Recognizing March 1, 2017, as Childhood Cancer Awareness Day.

SUMMARY: Recognizing March 1, 2017, as Childhood Cancer Awareness Day.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Cancer is the leading cause of death from disease for children and adolescents in Texas; and WHEREAS, In 2014, more than 1,600 Texans age 19 or younger were diagnosed with cancer; it is estimated that one in 285 people will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 20, and the number of cases of childhood cancer has risen 24 percent over the past 40 years; and WHEREAS, During the emotional and often frightening time that follows a cancer diagnosis, young patients must rely on caregivers to guide them every step of the way; in addition to the essential support provided by their families, patients depend on medical care delivered by the skilled physicians, nurses, and technicians who work tirelessly to help them fight the disease; and WHEREAS, In 2007, Texas voters approved a constitutional amendment that established the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, with the mission of expediting innovation in cancer research and the development of lifesaving treatments; the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas devotes fully 10 percent of its funding to childhood cancers, well over the percent devoted by the National Cancer Institute, and all of its funded research is conducted in Texas by Texas-based scientists; and WHEREAS, The trauma and uncertainty of coping with cancer is an experience that no child should face, but with the help of health care professionals, caregivers, and dedicated researchers across the state, young patients have more hope than ever before of overcoming this devastating disease and living full, happy lives; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby recognize March 1, 2017, as Childhood Cancer Awareness Day at the State Capitol and commend all those who are working on behalf of children with cancer and their families. Zaffirini President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 1, 2017.