Whereas , In 2005, 52 Michigan children died of cancer; and,

Whereas , The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2008, 10,730 new cases of childhood cancers will occur nationally; and,

Whereas , It is expected that 1,490 deaths will occur in 2008 among children in the United States, with about one-third of these deaths resulting from leukemia; and,

Whereas , Although childhood cancers are uncommon, cancer is the second leading cause of death in children; and,

Whereas , Death rates for childhood cancer have declined by almost 50 percent since 1975, and the substantial progress in pediatric survival rate is largely attributed to improved treatments and the high proportion of patient participation in clinical trials; and,

Whereas , There are no avoidable risk factors (such as smoking) that are known to influence most children's risk of developing cancer, the causes of which are largely unknown; and,

Whereas , Early symptoms of childhood cancer are usually nonspecific, and parents should make sure their children have regular checkups and should be alert to any unusual symptoms that persist; and,

Whereas , Survivors of childhood cancer may have treatment-related side effects that require ongoing attention; and,

Whereas , National and statewide organizations have contributed to progress in childhood cancers as well as support of children and their families; and now therefore be it,

Resolved , That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 2008 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.