LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim May 2009 as NF Awareness Month in the State of New York

WHEREAS, Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic tumor disorder that causes
tumors to form along the nerves anywhere in or on the body at any time;
symptoms may include brain tumors, blindness, deafness, seizures,
disfigurement, learning disabilities, and cancer; and
WHEREAS, Neurofibromatosis affects all races, all ethnic groups; there
is no cure or effective treatment for this disorder; and
WHEREAS, More than 6,000 families in the State of New York live with
neurofibromatosis; the disease affects more people than cystic fibrosis
and muscular dystrophy combined, yet few people are aware of its exist-
ence; and
WHEREAS, Thousands of New York families face many challenges due to
this common but poorly understood disorder; and
WHEREAS, Governors from around the northeast United States are joining
in endeavors to create awareness of neurofibromatosis; and
WHEREAS, Under the inspired and committed leadership of its Executive
Director, Karen Peluso, Neurofibromatosis Inc. Northeast has acted as an
outstanding advocate for NF patients and their families since 1988; and
WHEREAS, Neurofibromatosis Inc. Northeast is working with families and
Governors in the northeast to proclaim NF Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, The New York State Legislature affirms its commitment to take
a leadership role in the NF Awareness Campaign in New York; now, there-
fore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim May 2009 as NF Aware-
ness 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 David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York, and to Karen Peluso, Executive Director, Neurofibromatosis Inc.
Northeast.