February 28, 2023
Mayor's Office
DATE: February 28, 2023
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM:
Mayor Martinez and Councilmember Bana
Subject:
Proclamation recognizing February 28, 2023 as Rare
Diseases Day in Richmond, California.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact related to this item.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
The observance of Rare Diseases Day on the last day of
February each year provides an opportunity to raise
awareness of rare diseases, highlight the experiences of patients and their families and caregivers, and advocate for improved policies, research, and support for those
living with rare diseases.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
PROCLAMATION recognizing February 28, 2023, as
Rare Diseases Day in Richmond, California. Mayor
Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503) and Councilmember
Soheila Bana (510-620-6743)
DISCUSSION:
AGENDA
REPORT
February 28, 2023
Rare diseases affect an estimated 400 million people worldwide, with over 7,000 rare diseases identified to date, many of which are life-threatening and have no known cures. The impacts of rare diseases are significant in the areas of awareness, prevention and treatment.
The City of Richmond would like to shine light on this situation and its circumstances by joining municipalities across the nation in recognizing February 28, 2023, as Rare Diseases Day. Individuals with rare diseases often face significant challenges in receiving an accurate diagnosis, accessing appropriate treatment and care, and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. This may also cause a significant financial hardship for many individuals and families.
While the public is familiar with some rare diseases, many patients, families, and caregivers affected by lesser-known rare diseases bear the burden of funding research and raising public awareness to support the search for treatments.
Our city must better support individuals with rare diseases, their families, their caregivers, and the organizations that work tirelessly to advance research, provide resources and services, and raise awareness of the impact of rare diseases
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Proclamation