LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim March 2016, as Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official
days set aside to increase awareness of serious issues which 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 just proud to memorialize
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2016, as Multiple Myeloma
Awareness Month in the State of New York in conjunction with the obser-
vance of National Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, Multiple Myeloma is cancer formed by malignant plasma cells;
these plasma cells are part of the bone marrow, producing healthy blood
and functioning as part of the immune system; and
WHEREAS, Cancerous plasma cells grow out of control and can produce
tumors in the bones and other tissues; if there is only one tumor it is
called isolated plasmacytoma, otherwise it is known as Multiple Myeloma;
and
WHEREAS, Roughly 22,000 new cases of Multiple Myeloma are diagnosed
each year and about 10,000 deaths occur yearly from this disease; and
WHEREAS, With increased Multiple Myeloma awareness and treatment
options, survival statistics have doubled in the last decade; and
WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness of
this deadly disease, and more must be done to increase activity at the
local, state and national levels to educate and support those afflicted
as well as their families and caregivers; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2016, as Multiple
Myeloma Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.