K 302: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025, as Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York

 Assembly Resolution No. 302 BY: M. of A. Jensen MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025, as Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month in thed State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official months that are set aside to increase awareness of serious illnesses that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025, as Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week; and WHEREAS, A local nonprofit that supports adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer, 13thirty Cancer Connect, is partnering with Monroe County and the City of Rochester, along with several local businesses and organizations to recognize April as AYA Cancer Awareness Month; and WHEREAS, This annual awareness month is an opportunity to shine a light on the unique challenges that teen and young adult cancer patients and survivors face; and WHEREAS, 13thirty understands that adolescents and young adults fighting cancer require more than medicine and treatment; they require socializing with other AYAs, wellness programs, peer support groups, music, art and more; the support system this organization has built to fill the gaps in care for AYAs living with cancer is second to none; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, thanks to 13thirty Cancer Connect, the community's future business leaders are emerging from their cancer experience stronger and more confident, which will contribute to the vitality and strength of the region; and WHEREAS, This vital month of recognition is providing teens and young adults with cancer with opportunities to develop healthy habits during and after treatment, helping to reduce the burden of healthcare within the local community; and WHEREAS, There is healing power in connection, compassion, and emotional safety, which 13thirty provides to address the unique needs of young people facing cancer; and WHEREAS, 13thirty is an investment that is paying dividends, because we know that those who are treated with empathy and kindness today can become the compassionate leaders of tomorrow; and WHEREAS, The organization's mission to help adolescents and young adults with cancer live their very best lives is served through a variety of wellness, expressive arts, and social programs all designed to meet the unique challenges facing this underserved and long unrecognized group of cancer patients; and WHEREAS, Awareness and education are powerful tools in the race to find a cure for adolescent and young adult cancers; and WHEREAS, The health and vitality of the people of New York are significantly enhanced by local efforts to increase communication and education pertaining to cancer; and WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater awareness of this serious health issue, and more must be done to increase activity at the local, State and National levels; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025, as Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York; and 13thirty Cancer Connect.