LANSING — State Representative Robert Wittenberg (D-Oak Park) and Sen. Marty Knollenberg (R-Troy) introduced resolutions today that mark July 15, 2016, as Leiomyosarcoma Awareness Day in Michigan. Leiomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects smooth or involuntary muscle tissue and is often resistant to chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
“Patients with leiomyosarcoma and their families are fighting an all-out war against this terrible disease,” Sen. Knollenberg said. “Thankfully, there are also dedicated researchers, oncologists and nurses in Michigan who are fighting right alongside them. This resolution honors them and brings attention to their search for a cure.”
Leiomyosarcomas are very rare, affecting just six out of 1 million people. Even oncologists — doctors who specialize in cancer treatment — typically only see one or two cases of leiomyosarcoma throughout a career. The resolution also honors the Leiomyosarcoma Direct Research Foundation and the National Leiomyosarcoma Foundation, which work to improve the quality of life of patients and supports researchers searching for a cure.
“Families who have been touched by leiomyosarcoma should know that they are not alone in their fight against it,” Rep. Wittenberg said. “It’s my hope that this resolution will help highlight the battle against leiomyosarcoma and the researchers and doctors who are working so hard to help patients affected by this disease.”