Proclaiming March of 2026, as "Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, In March of 2016, the United States Department of Health and Human Services approved the inclusion of Bleeding Disorders Month on its National Observances Calendar. Subsequently, March of each year is now nationally recognized as "Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month" in the United States; and

WHEREAS, The designation formalized and expanded upon the original recognition of March, 1986, as "Hemophilia Awareness Month" by President Ronald Reagan; and

WHEREAS, These bleeding disorders, which share a common factor in the body's inability to form a proper blood clot, are characterized by extended bleeding and can lead to significant morbidity and fatality if not treated effectively; and

WHEREAS, Many individuals with hemophilia became infected with HIV and Hepatitis C in the 1980s due to the contamination of the blood supply and blood products; and

WHEREAS, Awareness during this month will generate greater understanding not only for hemophilia but for all inheritable bleeding disorders, including Von Willebrand Disease, which alone impacts an estimated 3.2 million Americans; with an estimated 33,000 individuals suffering from hemophilia; and

WHEREAS, Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month will also foster a greater sense of community and shared purpose among individuals with all inheritable bleeding disorders and will elevate awareness of and engagement in the inheritable bleeding disorders journey beyond our community to the general public, enabling the prevention of illness, unnecessary procedures, and disability; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby proclaims March of 2026, as "Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Richard Pezzillo, Executive Director, New England Hemophilia Association.