WHEREAS, Parkinson's Disease, a progressive disorder of the central nervous system, affecting more than one and a half million people in the United States; and

WHEREAS, The American Parkinson's Disease Association, Inc., founded in 1961, has sought to "Ease the Burden and Find the Cure" for this disease through research, patient and family services, education and sponsorship of 66 Chapters, 45 Information and Referral Centers, and 600 support groups throughout the United States; and

WHEREAS, The world, the nation, and the State of Rhode Island observes "World Parkinson's Disease Day" on April 11, 2002; and

WHEREAS, This House of Representatives recognizes the efforts of the American Parkinson's Disease Association, Inc. to raise funds and promote awareness to fight Parkinson's Disease, thereby improving the quality of human life for those living with Parkinson's Disease; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, in recognition of the indispensable services of the American Parkinson's Disease Association to the residents of Rhode Island, does hereby proclaim April 2002, "World Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island in honor of the work of the American Parkinson's Disease Association, Inc.; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of state be and he is hereby authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the American Parkinson's Disease Association, Inc.