Rep. Sak offered following resolution:

House Resolution No. 327.

            A resolution observing April 16, 2008, as Michigan Kidney Disease and Diabetes Awareness Day.

            Whereas, Healthy kidneys are essential for processing 200 quarts of blood per day to remove fluids, wastes and toxins from the body and, release hormones to regulate blood pressure, make red blood cells and promote strong bones; and   

              Whereas, More than 769,000 Michiganians, or one in nine adults, suffer from chronic kidney disease; and

            Whereas, Of the 11,000 Michiganians afflicted with kidney failure, approximately 47 percent are African-American; and

            Whereas, The two main causes of chronic kidney disease, that account for more than 70 percent of all cases, are diabetes and high blood pressure; and

            Whereas, Obesity and inactivity will cause one in three children born in 2000 to develop diabetes and become at-risk for kidney disease; and

            Whereas, The mission of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan is to prevent kidney disease, improve the quality of life for those living with it and promote early detection to aid in the prevention of the progression from kidney disease to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life; and

            Whereas, The cost of treatment for kidney disease patients is disproportionately higher than that of any other chronic disease; and

            Whereas, With the help of dedicated volunteers and supporters across the state, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan has continuously served the people of Michigan for the last 52 years with superior care, and will continue to offer additional programs and services to more people than any other affiliate in the country; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body observe April 16, 2008, as Michigan Kidney Disease and Diabetes Awareness Day. We hope that all possible support will continue to be extended to the prevention and treatment of Diabetes and Kidney disease in Michigan, throughout the country and the world.