[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 128 (Thursday, September 20, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S6530]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RECOGNIZING THE CHILDREN'S LEUKEMIA FOUNDATION

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I am proud to recognize all those 
affiliated with the Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan as they 
celebrate 60 years of dedicated service and invaluable support for 
Michigan families. Their efforts have made a tremendous difference in 
the lives of individuals diagnosed with leukemia or a related disorder. 
This is important work, and we are all grateful for their efforts. An 
exciting evening has been planned to commemorate this milestone in 
Birmingham, Michigan this Saturday.
  The Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan has been at the 
forefront of the battle against various blood disorders for six 
decades, helping countless families across Michigan deal with these 
devastating illnesses and to navigate the many important decisions they 
face as a consequence. Since its inception in the late 1940s and its 
incorporation in 1952, this organization has sought to equip patients 
and their loved ones with the resources, information, and guidance they 
need to make informed decisions.
  Each individual who is diagnosed with a disorder must make a number 
of important decisions about their care and circumstances. This is 
where the CLF steps in. The mission of the CLF is ``to provide and 
promote compassionate, personalized support to people in Michigan 
affected by Leukemia and other related disorders.'' This is 
accomplished through a comprehensive array of services for patients and 
their loved ones, ranging from support groups, to an online resource 
room, to a resource kit for families and caregivers that contains 
useful and timely information about the disorder and the road ahead.
  The financial and emotional support the CLF provides is crucial. 
Whether it is listening to patients and caregivers, helping to defray 
the cost of a prescription, referring an individual to the appropriate 
agency or service provider, or paying lodging for a family member, the 
CLF stands ready and willing to assist families in their time of need. 
Understanding that illness affects the entire family, the CLF offers 
services such as a day of respite for family members, peer support from 
others who share a common experience, a holiday toy program for 
children, and a ticket program that gives families a precious few hours 
of fun and joy. The deep concern and care this organization shows 
certainly helps to lessen the stress on families.
  Organizations like the CLF help to provide a measure of comfort and 
assistance to patients and their loved ones. I know my colleagues will 
join me in thanking all those affiliated with the Children's Leukemia 
Foundation of Michigan for their hard work and tireless commitment on 
behalf of families across Michigan. The positive impact they continue 
to have on the lives of Michiganians living with leukemia and related 
disorders, is tremendous, and I extend my deepest appreciation for 
their many years of service.

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