PROCLAMATION 6050—OCT. 18, 1989 103 STAT. 3135 cancer. The National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the Department of Health and Hviman Services, is the Federal Government's principal agency for cancer research. Members of the NCI's Pediatric Branch and pediatric oncologists at vmiversities and research institutes throughout . " the country are working tirelessly to develop improved methods for di- agnosing and treating children with cancer. Scores of other national and local health care organizations and chari- table associations play a vital role in supporting such cancer research. ' These organizations also help yoimg patients and their parents cope with the emotional and financial stress caused by cancer treatment, and their efforts deserve our praise and support. Through the generosi- ' ty of these groups, children suffering from cancer may be able to spend time at a special summer camp or realize a heartfelt dream; they and their parents may receive free air fravel for treatment; or parents may benefit from low-cost lodging while their children obtain care far from home. Across the United States, concerned Americans have rallied to help yomig cancer patients and their families by founding and support- ing wonderful programs like these. Nevertheless, we still face many challenges in the fight against child- hood cancer. Scientific research and advances in medicine and technol- ogy have improved our ability to detect and treat the disease, but cur- rent methods must be refined and new ones must be explored. We also must continue to support rehabilitation programs, which are particular- ly important for young victims of the disease. Work of this kind can help bring hope and healing to all cancer patients. This week, we pause to recognize in a special way the brave children and their parents who struggle against cancer. We also salute the phy- sicians and scientists who are leading research into the disease, as well as the thousands of private organizations and individual Ameri- cans who are dedicated to serving young victims and their families. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim the week beginning October 15, 1989, as National Awareness Week for Children with Cancer. I invite the Governors of the States, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa, and the Mayor of the District of Columbia to provide for the observance of this week. I also ask the people of the United States—in particular, health care professionals, educators, and concerned community groups—to join in reaffirming publicly our Nation's commitment to con- trolling childhood cancer. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty- nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fourteenth. GEORGE BUSH
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