PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS; the City of Charleston has long been concerned with the health of its citizens; and
WHEREAS; lung diseases, known collectively as chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, are the fourth leading cause of death in the United States; and
WHEREAS; respiratory therapists care is recognized as one of the most vital and progressive segments of the healthcare delivery system in the City of Charleston; and
WHEREAS; respiratory therapy includes managing ventilators in the ICU, performing pulmonary function tests that are used to diagnose lung disease and delivering respiratory care throughout hospitals, emergency departments, and homecare settings; and
WHEREAS; the people of Charleston deserve the opportunity to grow, thrive and be healthy, informed and aware of their respiratory health; and the factors that affect that health; and
WHEREAS; during October, respiratory therapists, pulmonolgists, health care advocates, and other professionals from around the world will be raising awareness of respiratory health issues through special screenings and other activities during Respiratory Care Week, October 23-29, 2011.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Mayor, City of Charleston, do herby proclaim October 23-29, 2011 as:
RESPIRATORY CARE WEEK
in the City of Charleston, and extend and best wishes and our gratitude to all respiratory health care professionals for providing life-saving care every day and for participating in Respiratory Care Week to the benefit of the respiratory health of the citizens of Charleston.
Signed: Joseph P. Riley Jr.
