Presenter
Presented by Mr. Peduto
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WHEREAS, mesothelioma is a unique type cancer that affects the lungs and/or stomach as a result of being exposed to asbestos on a daily basis over a long period of time. This disease can take as long as 30 years to develop. Some common symptoms are persistent coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, pain in the chest, pain in the abdomen, fatigue and significant weight loss; and
WHEREAS, deaths from asbestos-related products have been documented since the late 19th century, however, compensation for asbestos-related diseases could not be sought until 1951; and
WHEREAS, as millions of dollars are spent on asbestos litigation and lobbying, patients diagnosed with this terrible disease will not have a realistic hope for a cure until money is committed for research because there is no known cure; and
WHEREAS, in 1999, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) was formed with the purpose of eradicating mesothelioma as a life-ending disease through research, education and awareness. It is dedicated to restoring hope and ending the misery for mesothelioma patients and their families; and
WHEREAS, on Saturday October 9th MARF will hold its 3rd Annual dinner-dance "Dance For Me So Others Might Live" at the Riverview Park Activities Building, Observatory Hill on the North Side from 4-9PM to help benefit the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. The donation is $25.00 per ticket and can be obtained by calling 412-734-3195 or 412-276-0702
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NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh commends the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation for their work, support and mission to eradicate this asbestos related cancer.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that September 26, 2004 be hereby declared "Mesothelioma Awareness Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.