Recognizes May 17, 2023, as Diffuse Midline Glioma/Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DMG/DIPG) Awareness Day in Louisiana
Impact
By designating an awareness day, the resolution seeks to enhance public knowledge about the severity and challenges of DMG/DIPG. It aims to encourage support for research and resources dedicated to childhood cancers, highlighting both the emotional and financial toll on families dealing with diagnoses. The recognition of this day is particularly poignant given the personal story of Kallie Dickens, a young girl who lost her battle with the disease.
Summary
House Resolution 97 recognizes May 17, 2023, as Diffuse Midline Glioma/Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DMG/DIPG) Awareness Day in Louisiana. The resolution aims to bring attention to DMG/DIPG, which is characterized as an aggressive form of brain tumor primarily affecting children, particularly those aged five to nine. Unfortunately, there has been little progress in developing effective treatments, rendering the disease inoperable and fatal, with affected individuals facing a median survival rate of only eight to twelve months.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HR97 is largely supportive, with many viewing it as a compassionate and necessary measure to spotlight a devastating reality for children diagnosed with DMG/DIPG and their families. There is a common consensus on the importance of discussing this issue to foster broader understanding and mobilize support for affected families and ongoing research.
Contention
Though not contentious in a legislative sense, the resolution points to deeper issues related to the lack of research funding for pediatric cancers, which is a broader concern in the medical community. Advocates call for greater attention and resources to be allocated to fighting childhood cancers like DMG/DIPG, which continue to lack substantial advancements despite decades of medical awareness.
Expressing support for the designation of May 17, 2026, as "DIPG Awareness Day" to raise awareness and encourage research into cures for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) and pediatric cancers in general.
Expressing support for the designation of May 17, 2025, as "DIPG Awareness Day" to raise awareness and encourage research into cures for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) and pediatric cancers in general.
A resolution expressing support for the designation of May 17, 2025, as "DIPG Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day" to raise awareness of, and encourage research on, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma tumors and pediatric cancers in general.
Designating June 15, 2026, as "Elora Joyce Khan Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania to promote education, compassion, advocacy and research related to pediatric brain cancer.