Reps. Smith, Doggett introduce resolution to recognize September as Hydrocephalus Month

Statement

Bipartisan legislation recognizing September as National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month was introduced in the House of Representatives today.

Congressman Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional Pediatric and Adult Hydrocephalus Caucus, along with fellow Co-Chair Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), authored the resolution in support of the nearly one million Americans living everyday with hydrocephalus--a life-threatening accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain that currently has no cure.

"Each year 1 in 770 babies develops hydrocephalus," said Smith. "Because there is no cure, children with hydrocephalus "grow up' inside of a hospital and undergo multiple brain surgeries as a result failing shunts. We are working together to raise awareness and fight for an increase in federal research and resources so that the medical community can find a solution for these children and their families," Smith said.

"During Hydrocephalus Awareness Month, we can rededicate ourselves promoting dialogue on hydrocephalus, supporting those pushing forward on research for a cure, and addressing the need to make treatment available and affordable to all patients," said Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the Ways and Means Health Subcommittee.

"As Co-Chair of the Congressional Pediatric and Adult Hydrocephalus Caucus, I will continue to use this as a constructive forum to raise awareness of and work to solve the needs of those affected by this condition."

The resolution is supported by the two leading associations dedicated to helping families overcome the challenges inherent in hydrocephalus: The Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation and the Hydrocephalus Association.

"In support of the over one million people living with hydrocephalus in the U.S., we are deeply grateful to Representatives Doggett and Smith for their support of Hydrocephalus Awareness Month. Their leadership both in introducing this resolution and in serving as Co-Chairs of the Congressional Pediatric and Adult Hydrocephalus Caucus demonstrate their commitment to raising awareness about this condition in Washington DC and beyond. We at the Hydrocephalus Association appreciate their willingness to embrace the needs of patients and families around the country as we seek to find better treatments and possibly a cure. They are essential partners in these efforts." Diana Gray, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hydrocephalus Association

"We at the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation applaud the leadership shown by Representatives Smith and Doggett. In introducing H. Res. 605, they've shown their strong commitment to improving the lives of children with hydrocephalus and their family," Michael B. Illions, VP and Chief of Staff, Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation.
Resolutions similar to Smith-Doggett have been introduced in states and municipalities across the country and cited at rallies and walks organized to boost hydrocephalus awareness and research. The federal resolution is designed to complement and enhance these efforts in the years ahead.

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