ADOPTED AUGUST 25, 2010

RESOLUTION # 20: "SUPPORT OF THE RETIRED PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS CANCER FUND"

The following resolution was adopted at the 50th convention of the International Association of Fire Fighters in San Diego, California on August 25, 2010:

WHEREAS cancer is recognized as one of the deadliest diseases  known to mankind: and

WHEREAS cancer does not discriminate, but affects people from all walks of life regardless of age, gender, or health: and

WHEREAS  firefighters face the risk of contracting certain types of cancer wth occurence rates being two to four times greater than the general population, as per a number of bona fide medical studies; and

WHEREAS experts from the American Cancer Society, Center for Disease Control, and other prominent organizations have repeatedly stated that advances in cancer treatment, early detection and an eventual cure will only come through cancer research; and

WHEREAS one organization, The Retired Professional Fire Figters Cancer Fund, Inc. a non profit 501(c)3 organization founded in 2006 by both active and retired I.A.F.F. members for the sole purpose of raising funds for promising cancer research programs; specifically those research programs with a focus on cancers that have a higher than normal incidence among firefighters; and

WHEREAS in addition to both active and retired I.A.F.F. members, the board of The Retired Professional Fire Fighters Cancer Fund, Inc. includes prominent members of the medical community; and

WHEREAS there are other organizations affiliated with fire fighters who offer educatonal programs, advocacy programs and personal support programs for fire fighters diagnosed with cancer; and

WHEREAS no other organization focuses solely on raising fund for cancer research specific to fire fighters; and

WHEREAS all board members of The Retired Professional Fire Fighters Cancer Fund, Inc. provide in kind service to the fund without and salary or stipend; and

WHEREAS The Retired Professional Fire Fighters Cancer Fund, Inc. has made significant contributions to world renowned cancer research programs; and

WHEREAS on July 16, 2008 The New York State Professional Fire Fighters Association during their annual convention passed and adopted a similiar resolution recognizing, supporting and encouaging their members to assist the effots of The Retired Professional Fire Fighters Cancer Fund, Inc.;

NOW BE IT RESOLVED that The International Association of Fire Fighters recognize, support, and encourage their members to assist the efforts of The Retired Professional Fire Fighters Cancer Fund, Inc.