RESOLUTION NO. 070508

Recognizing the Parkinson Foundation of the Heartland and TEVA Neuroscience and declaring Parkinsons Disease Awareness Day

WHEREAS, more than a million people in the United States have Parkinsons Disease, a neurological movement disorder that effects balance, causes stiffness of muscles, and slows movement; and

WHEREAS, approximately 40% of the people who live with Parkinsons Disease are under the age of sixty, and are effectively removed from the workforce. Tens of thousands more are diverted from the workforce by their roles as caregivers; and

WHEREAS, Parkinsons Disease costs our economy more than $25 billion annually, yet, in spite of great strides made in the past five years, federal assistance for research is grossly under-funded, and those afflicted receive little assistance; and

WHEREAS, for 22 years, the Parkinson Foundation of the Heartland has been committed to raising awareness, finding the cause as well as a cure, and providing education and support to patients, their families and caregivers. Through such help, those living with Parkinsons can continue to enjoy their lives in spite of the difficulties presented by the disease; and

WHEREAS, medical professionals, courageous patients and loving family members, and pharmaceutical companies like Kansas Citys TEVA Neuroscience are making positive differences in peoples lives and in pursuing a cure; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council hereby recognize the Parkinson Foundation of the Heartland and TEVA Neuroscience and declaring Parkinsons Disease Awareness Day; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to Dru Dimmel, Chairman of the Board of the Parkinson Foundation of the Heartland, and Larry Downey, CEO of TEVA Neuroscience with the appreciation of the Mayor, Council and citizens of Kansas City for their efforts to cure Parkinsons Disease.

_________________________________________________