LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring The Garafalo Family upon the occasion of
being selected as the 2010 March of Dimes Northeastern New York Division
Ambassador Family

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
those exemplary individuals within the State of New York whose personal
triumphs serve as an inspiration to all citizens; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor The
Garafalo Family upon the occasion of being selected as the 2010 March of
Dimes Northeastern New York Division Ambassador Family to be observed by
the March of Dimes on Tuesday, May 10, 2011; and
WHEREAS, A national voluntary health organization, the March of Dimes
mission is to improve the health of infants and children by preventing
birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality; The Garafalo Family
is to be recognized for their unwavering dedication to educating the
public about its Mission; and
WHEREAS, On September 11, 2004, Greg and Elisabeth Garafalo were cele-
brating the news that they were expecting their first child in May; they
were to name her Gabriela and believed that the most beautiful chapter
of their life was about to unfold; and
WHEREAS, Unfortunately, the unexpected occurred; on January 22, 2005,
only 24 weeks pregnant, Elisabeth Garafalo was rushed to the hospital
dangerously premature; three days later weighing 1 lb., 2 oz., Gabriela
Lisbeth was born; and
WHEREAS, The road ahead was long and filled with many unforeseen chal-
lenges; ultimately, the baby spent 165 days in the NICU/PICU; she was
discharged on July 11, 2005, on a ventilator, oxygen, and with a
tracheotomy; and
WHEREAS, Since then, Gabriela Garafalo has undergone four major
surgeries and has been to the operating room nine times; and
WHEREAS, After this long arduous battle, Greg and Elisabeth Garafalo
believe that miracles do come true and their precious daughter is living
proof; the Garafalo's story serves to inspire others facing similar
circumstances as well as to educate the public on the importance of
supporting the March of Dimes and its vital Mission; and
WHEREAS, The Garafalo Family has overcome the most painful of adver-
sities; their courage, coupled with their optimism, as well as the
support of the noble March of Dimes organization, has given them the
greatest gift, the gift of Gabriela, the gift of life; and
WHEREAS, In the course of the evolving development of the Empire
State, there have emerged certain members of our community who have
embodied truly magnanimous conduct and strength, and we call these indi-
viduals "distinguished citizens" of the State of New York; now, there-
fore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor The Garafalo Family upon the occasion of being selected as the
2010 March of Dimes Northeastern New York Division Ambassador Family;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Greg and Elisabeth Garafalo, 7 Pearl Street, Saratoga, New
York.