Glioblastoma may be a new word for many, but for our community, it’s well-known.

According to data from the Florida Department of Health, St. Lucie County has had dozens of cases of this objectively rate disease over the years.  In fact, in just one zip code, there were 17 cases between 1998 and 2007, while the expected rate nationwide was almost half of that.

My friend, Mark Cunningham, was one of the lives we lost to this aggressive brain tumor less than four years ago.  The impact of this incurable disease still weighs on the Cunningham family, and tens of thousands of other families just like his, across the United States every year.

It’s families like the Cunninghams that inspire our community to keep fighting.  Raising awareness is a critical step towards treatments and, ultimately, a cure.  That’s why I introduced legislation to designate July 19, 2023 as “Glioblastoma Awareness Day.”

I was excited to see this bill pass the Senate, and I’ll be working to send it through the House and to the President’s desk.  This bipartisan and bicameral legislation is about remembering those we’ve lost, and giving hope to every person battling this disease.  I believe that, together, we can find a cure!