Sample Proclamation

WHEREAS, nearly 70,000 young Americans in their 20s and 30s are diagnosed with cancer each year, the leading disease killer among people this age; and

WHEREAS, many young adult cancer patients have no health insurance, are often diagnosed long after first symptoms appear and have the lowest participation rate in clinical trials of any age group; and

WHEREAS, young adults with cancer between their late teens and age 40 face unique developmental and psychosocial issues including fertility, body image, cognitive function and other long-term treatment effects; and

WHEREAS, despite any health challenges, young adults must still aspire to achieve their goals and dreams; and

WHEREAS, peer support for young adults facing cancer is often lacking and can lead to severe feelings of isolation, which can exacerbate health concerns; and

WHEREAS, in April 2003, Vital Options International launched National Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week and in partnership with the Lance Armstrong Foundation LIVESTRONG Young Adult Alliance, organizations and clinical institutions throughout North America have come together to raise cancer awareness on behalf of the unique needs of this age group and to establish a national agenda for adolescent/young adult oncology;

Now, Therefore, I _____________________ do hereby proclaim the week of April 5 through April 11, 2009, as National Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week and encourage all residents of this great state to join this special effort to help young adult Americans take advantage of new knowledge to conquer cancer.