Assembly Resolution No. 1097

BY: M. of A. Jensen

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
April 2024, as Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer
Awareness Month in the 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 2024, 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 2024, 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.