House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

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House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	January 16, 2019 08:21 AM
From:	Representative Maria P. Donatucci
To:	All House members
Subject:	National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the Blue Lights Campaign

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States and accounted for over 50,000 deaths in 2018. Routine screening for adults of appropriate age could prevent up to 60% of colorectal cancer deaths but sadly, many Americans are unaware of the steps they can take to prevent the disease and do not undergo the simple test every year. As such, I am introducing legislation to recognize the month of March 2019 as “National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.

The Blue Lights Campaign is an initiative created by Dr. Marianne Ritchie, a gastroenterologist with Thomas Jefferson University, to generate awareness of colorectal cancer throughout Philadelphia and the rest of the state. As part of this campaign, many of Philadelphia’s well-known structures are lit up in blue for one week in March to urge older adults to get screened. To honor her vitally important mission, I will also be introducing legislation to recognize Dr. Ritchie’s Blue Lights Campaign.

As stewards of public health, it is imperative that we bring attention to colorectal cancer and to the efforts being made to educate everyone on simple, preventive strategies. Please join me in supporting these initiatives and working towards a healthier Pennsylvania for all. Thank you for your consideration.

Document #1

Introduced as HR39

Description:	Document #1 This resolution would recognize the month of March 2019 as “National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.
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Document #2

Introduced as HR40

Description:	Document #2 This resolution would recognize Dr. Marianne Ritchie’s Blue Lights Campaign and her efforts to raise awareness of colorectal cancer throughout Pennsylvania.
	View Attachment