TITLE: Recognizing February 12, 2025, as Rita L. Littlefield Kidney Day at the State Capitol.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 12, 2025, as Rita L. Littlefield Kidney Day at the State Capitol.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The board members of the Texas Renal Coalition and the Texas Chronic Kidney Disease Task Force are gathering on February 12, 2025, to take part in Rita L. Littlefield Kidney Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, This biennial event was established in 1997 by Rita Littlefield, a founding member of the Texas Renal Coalition who has worked tirelessly for more than three decades in behalf of kidney patients; in the drive to raise awareness of a very significant medical issue, the gathering unites patients, health care providers, and organizations; and WHEREAS, Although kidney disease is a serious and rapidly growing health problem, many Texans remain unaware that they are at risk; left undetected, chronic kidney disease can lead to premature death from heart disease or other complications, or to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a transplant to sustain life; early detection and management can prevent or slow the progression of chronic kidney disease and decrease health care expenditures associated with advanced kidney disease; moreover, the Texas Chronic Kidney Disease Task Force has developed a state plan for chronic kidney disease treatment that has the potential to save lives and reduce the financial burden of the disease; and WHEREAS, Many medical professionals, organizations, and volunteers in the state are committed to ensuring the highest quality of care for kidney patients; the Texas Renal Coalition contributes significantly to this mission as it monitors health policies for dialysis and transplant patients, offers education programs to improve public awareness about the disease, and acts as a clearinghouse for information related to legislative issues; and WHEREAS, Benefiting from the dedication and leadership of Rita Littlefield, the Texas Renal Coalition, the Texas Chronic Kidney Disease Task Force, and their associates have made a positive difference in the lives of innumerable Texans, and it is most fitting to recognize Ms. Littlefield and these organizations for their achievements; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 12, 2025, as Rita L. Littlefield Kidney Day at the State Capitol. Guillen Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 225 was adopted by the House on February 12, 2025, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House