Hudson Introduces Bipartisan and Bicameral Resolution in Support of Americans with Rare Diseases

Washington, D.C. –  Congressman Richard Hudson (R-NC) and Rep. André Carson (D-IN), along with Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), have introduced a resolution supporting the designation of the last day of February as “Rare Disease Day.” 

“As we celebrate 40 years of the Orphan Drug Act, I’m excited to join my House and Senate colleagues in reintroducing the Rare Disease Day Resolution,” said Rep. Hudson. “Families impacted by rare diseases deserve our recognition and support. I’m proud to be a champion for North Carolinians with rare diseases and look forward to continuing my work on the Rare Disease Caucus to raise awareness and strengthen research and development of innovative treatments, diagnostics, and cures for rare diseases.” 

There are around 7,000 rare diseases that affect about 1 in 10 Americans. They include conditions like Sickle Cell Anemia, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and many others. Since 2009, Rare Disease Day has been observed in more than 100 countries as a means to bring awareness to these conditions, honor those fighting the diseases, encourage accurate and early diagnosis, and strengthen the search for cures. The passage of this resolution will bring greater awareness to that effort in America and around the world. 

“I’m extremely pleased to join my colleagues in reintroducing this resolution,” said Rep. Carson. “The hundreds of thousands of Americans fighting rare diseases, as well as their loved ones, are often waging silent battles due to the lack of awareness of these diseases. Increasing that awareness helps to honor their fight, and helps bring us closer to finding life-saving cures. Our bipartisan and bicameral resolution does just that, and I urge my congressional colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support it so we can make it law.” 

“It’s difficult for those with rare diseases to find treatment when options are limited and the nearest specialist is hundreds of miles away,” said Sen. Brown. “Rare Disease Awareness Day is a call to raise awareness and support Ohioans living with rare diseases or disorders.”

“As a doctor, I understand the importance of helping people with rare diseases,” said Sen. Barrasso. “Many of these patients face challenges in accessing the care and treatments they need. This is why I am proud to help lead this bipartisan effort recognizing Rare Disease Day.”