National Glanzmass's Thrombasthenia Awareness Day

Floor Speech

National Glanzmass's Thrombasthenia Awareness Day

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, as a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, I stand for the consideration of H. Res. 994, as amended, which expresses support for the designation of a National Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Awareness Day.

H. Res. 994 was introduced by Representative Paul Broun of the fine State of Georgia on February 25, 2008, and has the support and cosponsorship of 57 Members of Congress. The measure was considered by the Oversight panel on March 13, 2008, and was passed by voice vote at that time after being amended for technical purposes.

Mr. Speaker, while many people may not be aware of Glanzmann's thrombasthenia, which is an extremely rare disorder of the blood where the platelets lack glycoprotein, a key element for blood to clot, therefore significantly prolonging bleeding time. While on average there are only 200 cases of Glanzmann's thrombasthenia reported every year, the disease and finding a cure for it still requires our attention, resources and support.

March 1, 2008, marked the inaugural commemoration of the National Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Awareness Day. The day was celebrated with events, receptions and our colleagues in the Senate Chamber passed an identical resolution honoring and recognizing the importance of National Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Awareness Day.

I think it is important that we in this body help to expand research awareness of Glanzmann's thrombasthenia, which is why I rise in support of H. Res. 994. Passage of this measure will help to raise the profile and the general public's understanding of this illness and the corresponding National Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Awareness Day. I urge passage of the resolution.

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