|
|
 |
|
|
Annual Award Recognizes Special Contributions by People with Disabilities
Tuesday, May 20, 2003
Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno today joined the New York State Senate in honoring Christine Marro from Troy with an Achievers� Award at the 23rd Annual Disabilities Awareness Day Awards Ceremony. The prestigious event recognizes an individual's ability to overcome personal, physical challenges and honors their accomplishments on behalf of themselves and their community.
"The Achievers Award is an honor that recognizes the triumph of individuals over sometimes daunting physical challenges, and it is bestowed on those whose efforts serve as an example of courage, personal excellence and achievement for our entire community," said Senator Bruno. "I am especially pleased to honor Christine Marro for the tremendous example she provides in breaking barriers and overcoming obstacles. Her achievements should be a source of pride and inspiration to all us."
In 2002, Christine Marro was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), more commonly known as Lou Gehrig�s Disease, forcing her to retire as a dental hygienist at age 49. While ALS has affected her mobility and respiration, it has not dampened her indomitable spirit as she serves as a proactive role model to others with ALS.
Ms. Marro immediately located a support group at the regional ALS Center at St. Peter�s Hospital in Albany. The center provides physical therapy, emotional support, and aids such as walkers, wheelchairs and communication devices free of charge. It was here that she met her PALS, or fellow ALS sufferers.
Ms. Marro is making a video to help dispel myths and fears for both new and existing sufferers of ALS. It will provide positive testimony to the benefits of early intervention, which include placement of a feeding tube upon diagnosis and the use of forced air devices to aid in breathing, both of which have improved the quality of Ms. Marro�s life and alleviated some symptoms.
Incredibly courageous, Ms. Marro has traveled solo to visit her children, exercises twice a week with Warriors on Wheels (a program for those with disabilities) and is enrolled in End of Life Counseling. Still able to drive short distances, Ms. Marro attends mass almost daily and visits her PALS in the hospital and in hospice. She is also a proud spokesperson at fundraisers which benefit the regional ALS center.
Ms. Marro was presented with an "Achievers Award" certificate and a Legislative Proclamation that highlights his accomplishments at the special ceremony in the "Well" of the Legislative Office Building in Albany.
The New York State Senate "Achievers Awards" is presented each spring in conjunction with Legislative Disabilities Awareness Day, an annual event sponsored by the Senate to raise public consciousness of the efforts and accomplishments of citizens with physical disabilities.
[BIOGRAPHY] [DISTRICT MAP] [PHOTO GALLERY] [LEGISLATION] [CONSTITUENT SERVICES] [YOUR OPINION COUNTS] [GUESTBOOK] [PRIVACY POLICY] [SENATE INSIDER] [CONTACT INFO] [HOME/NEWS]