Assembly Resolution No. 1017

BY: M. of A. Gibbs

HONORING the life and legacy of Ariel Gibbs, in
conjunction with the observance of Heart Valve
Disease Awareness Day on February 22, 2024

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness of serious
diseases 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 honor
the life and legacy of Ariel Gibbs, in conjunction with the observance
of Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day on February 22, 2024; and

WHEREAS, Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day is recognized annually on
February 22nd, and aims to increase recognition of the specific risks
and symptoms of heart valve disease, improve detection and treatment,
and ultimately save lives; and

WHEREAS, While heart valve disease can be disabling and deadly,
available treatments can save lives, making education and awareness
particularly important; and

WHEREAS, On this day and throughout the year, the campaign
partners-100+ non-profits, advocacy organizations, professional
societies, foundations, and hospitals and heart centers-are helping to
spread the word about valve disease; and

WHEREAS, More than 11 million Americans have heart valve disease
(HVD), a potentially disabling and deadly disease, yet three out of four
Americans know little to nothing about HVD; and

WHEREAS, Aortic Stenosis (AS) is the most common type of heart valve
disease, affecting millions of people in the United States; and

WHEREAS, AS is the hardening of the aortic valve over time, causing
the valve to tighten; this narrowing of the valve makes it harder for
the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body; and

WHEREAS, AS can vary in severity and gets worse over time; as a
result, less oxygen-rich blood flows from the lungs to the brain and the
rest of the body, which may cause symptoms; and

WHEREAS, Severe aortic stenosis with symptoms, commonly known as
heart valve failure, can be life-threatening if left untreated; and

WHEREAS, Born on March 25, 1995, Ariel Gibbs tragically died of
Aortic Stenosis on February 18, 2016, at just 20 years old; it is
imperative that there be greater awareness of this serious health
condition, 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
honor the life and legacy of Ariel Gibbs, in conjunction with the
observance of Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Ariel Gibbs.