Senate Resolution No. 1578

BY: Senator GRIFFO

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
April, 2026, as Parkinson's Awareness Month in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to set aside
official days established to increase awareness of serious health issues
that affect the lives of New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorialize
Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April, 2026, as Parkinson's Awareness
Month in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder
that affects millions of individuals worldwide, including thousands of
New Yorkers, causing a wide range of debilitating symptoms that impact
the ability to move, communicate, and perform basic daily activities;
and

WHEREAS, According to the New York State Department of Health, the
Parkinson's Foundation, and the World Health Organization, Parkinson's
disease affects more than 65,000 people in New York State, one million
people in the United States, and over 10 million people around the
world; and

WHEREAS, Parkinson's disease does not discriminate by age, race,
gender, or socioeconomic status, but can affect people of all walks of
life, and those living with the disease often face challenges that
require medical care, family support, and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, April is recognized annually as Parkinson's Awareness
Month, a month to raise awareness, promote understanding, and celebrate
the resilience of individuals living with Parkinson's disease; and

WHEREAS, Acknowledging Parkinson's disease and raising public
awareness is an essential part of reducing the stigma surrounding the
condition, promoting research for better treatments, and supporting
those affected by it, including their families and caregivers; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York joins Community Wellness Partners and
other organizations throughout the State in committing to supporting
those affected by Parkinson's disease and their families; and

WHEREAS, During the month of April, 2026, the global Parkinson's
community will unite through the 'Spark the Night' campaign, a worldwide
initiative dedicated to raising awareness for Parkinson's disease by
lighting up buildings, bridges, and landmarks in blue; and

WHEREAS, Increased research, education, and community support
services are crucial to improving the lives of people with Parkinson's
and finding a cure; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April, 2026, as
Parkinson's Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York; and Community Wellness Partners.