WHEREAS In Canada, there are 30,000 people who have been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (if the cause is unknown), with many more still waiting to be diagnosed; and

WHEREAS pulmonary fibrosis a little-known, progressive and potentially fatal lung disease that causes scarring in the lungs and shortness of breath, depriving the body of oxygen; and

WHEREAS people living with pulmonary fibrosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis could benefit from early diagnosis and treatment to slow down and, in some cases, stop the progression of the disease; and

WHEREAS pulmonary fibrosis affects not just individuals, but their families, friends, employers, and communities, and are often given little attention or concern by the general public, the general health care system, and elected and appointed public policy makers, resulting in inadequate priority being given to the disorder; and

WHEREAS the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation has designated September as Pulmonary Fibrosis Month and urges increased effort and action intended to improve access to quality care, support research into new and
improved treatments and provide support services to improve the quality of life for those living with pulmonary fibrosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and their families.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT I, Shawn Pankow, Mayor of the Town of Smiths Falls do hereby proclaim the month of September, to be Pulmonary Fibrosis Month in the Town of Smiths Falls and urge all community
members to become informed and involved to fight to eradicate this serious disease.