Assembly Resolution No. 989

BY: M. of A. Rosenthal

HONORING June K. Wu, MD, for her extraordinary
advocacy, education, and research contributions as a
globally recognized pediatric plastic and
craniofacial surgeon serving the lymphatic community

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the quality
and character of life in communities across New York State are shaped by
the dedicated efforts of individuals and organizations committed to
improving the lives of others; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
June K. Wu, MD, a New York City resident and surgeon whose leadership
has advanced research, education, and awareness for individuals affected
by lymphedema and other lymphatic diseases, in conjunction with the
observance of World Lymphedema Day on March 6, 2026; and

WHEREAS, World Lymphedema Day is a global observance dedicated to
raising awareness of lymphatic diseases, celebrating resilience within
the lymphatic community, and honoring the healthcare professionals,
researchers, and advocates who serve them; and

WHEREAS, World Lymphedema Day also serves as a call to action to
address this debilitating condition, which often affects cancer
survivors as well as individuals born with lymphatic disorders; and

WHEREAS, An estimated 10 million Americans and 250 million people
worldwide live with either primary (hereditary or genetic) or secondary
(acquired) lymphedema, including many who have undergone cancer
treatment; and

WHEREAS, Dr. June K. Wu is an Associate Professor of Surgery at
Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Co-Director of the
NYP/Columbia University Irving Medical Center Interdisciplinary Vascular
Anomalies Group, and Co-Director of the Vascular Anomalies Basic and
Translational Research Program, and is internationally recognized for
her commitment to improving outcomes for individuals living with
lymphatic disease; and

WHEREAS, She leads pioneering research focused on developing
innovative and affordable treatments for lymphatic diseases, including
securing funding from the Department of Defense Peer Reviewed Medical
Research Program to study postoperative chylothorax in pediatric
congenital cardiac patients; and

WHEREAS, Dr. June K. Wu volunteers on the Global Oversight Committee
responsible for evaluating international Centers of Excellence in the
Diagnosis and Treatment of Lymphatic Diseases and played a key role in
securing Columbia University Irving Medical Center/New
York-Presbyterian's designation as a Comprehensive Center of Excellence,
one of only three in New York State; and

WHEREAS, Dr. June K. Wu and her team at Columbia University Irving
Medical Center began their advocacy and fundraising efforts in 2012
through the Lymphatic Education & Research Network's NY Run/Walk to
Fight Lymphatic Diseases, establishing a lasting partnership in service
of patients and families; and

WHEREAS, Through her dedication, compassion, and leadership, Dr.
June K. Wu continues to inspire patients, clinicians, and researchers
alike; and

WHEREAS, Individuals who uplift their communities and sustain
excellence over many years are deserving of recognition by the citizens
of this State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor June K. Wu, MD, in conjunction with the observance of World
Lymphedema Day, for her exceptional commitment to advancing education,
research, and advocacy for lymphatic diseases; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to June K. Wu, MD, and to the Lymphatic Education & Research
Network.