moved that Bill S-211, an act respecting National Sickle Cell Awareness Day, be read the first time.
I am very pleased to rise in this House to introduce Bill S-211, an act respecting National Sickle Cell Awareness Day, which, about two weeks ago, passed in the Senate unanimously and without amendment.
On September 29, my office met with Rugi Jalloh, president of the Sickle Cell Association of Nova Scotia, along with her delegation. Each of them had compelling and personal stories of how this disease has affected their health or the health of their family members.
People with sickle cell disease frequently experience extreme pain in their bones. One person we met with has a sister who is mostly bedridden and requires home care. Another person we met had lost two family members to this disease.
June 19 is recognized as World Sickle Cell Day by many organizations, including the World Health Organization. Bill S-211 seeks to add our voice to this important cause by marking June 19 as National Sickle Cell Awareness Day in Canada.
I ask that my colleagues on all sides of this House join with the Senate in the speedy passage of the bill.
(Motion agreed to and bill read the first time)