Proclamation

WHEREAS, according to the American Heart Association, congenital heart defects are the most frequently occurring birth defects in the United States today and the primary cause of birth defect related deaths; and

WHEREAS, congenital heart defects, present in approximately one in every 100 births, range in severity from mild to more severe with some defects requiring multiple surgeries, a lifetime of medication, and other measures; and

WHEREAS, despite the advances, there is still much to be done in understanding and treating this disease; and

WHEREAS, The Congenital Heart Information Network (CHD Awareness Week Sponsor) along with other organizations, such as Angel’s Pediatric Heart House and involved citizens participate, February 7^th -14^th has been designated as a week to increase awareness and education about congenital heart defects.

WHEREAS, by providing support to the families impacted by this disease and recognizing the dedicated medical professionals who offer such outstanding service, we can make a difference.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jack Brady, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of North Lauderdale, Florida, do hereby proclaim February 7^th – 14^th, 2008, as:

“A DAY FOR HEARTS: CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT

AWARENESS WEEK” IN THE CITY OF NORTH LAUDERDALE

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official seal of the City of North Lauderdale, Florida, to be affixed this 24^th day of January, 2008.

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MAYOR JACK BRADY