World Polio Day
The Rotary Club of Thomasville sponsored a Polio Day event for the City of Thomasville and the students of Bishop Hall Charter School. Rotary Club President Andre Marria presented a compelling story of why polio is still a critical issue. She introduced Dr. Lorraine M. Williams, otolaryngology specialist in Thomasville who gave a visual story of how the polio virus affects people. it was a very moving presentation and a couple of facts stood out, that in the US the last contracted case was in 1979 and a gentleman was introduced as one of the longest living person with the disease who was able to graduate college and get a degree in law.
Nancy Tillinghast is an original Polio Pioneer who was one of 1.8 million children volunteered by their parents to receive the vaccine. She spoke of the effects on herself and her classmates.
Fran Milberg spoke on how the Gates Foundation has worked closely with Rotary to help eradicate this disease. At this point there are only three countries were new cases of polio have been reported.
To close World Polio Day, Thomasville Commissioner Jay Flowers presented Andre’ Marria a proclamation in honor of Thomasville Rotary Club’s commitment to the global eradication of polio.He stated that The Rotary Club of Thomasville, founded in May 1921, with its past, and present 141 members, has helped bring about the 99.9% drop in cases of polio since 1982.Mayor of Thomasville, Georgia,Greg Hobbs proclaimed October 24, 2018 as World Polio Day in Thomasville.
| Partner Involvement |
|---|
| Bishop Hall Charter School, Thomasville City Council |
Lobby Welcome
Rotarians Ed Elam, President Andre Marria, Mary Beth Donaldson, Past Presiden, Terri White, Larun Vann, and Club Secretary Angelia Willimson and daughter, stand in the lobby to greet the students and guest attending the event.
Audience
Students from Bishop Hall Charter School attend World Polio Day at Thomas County Central Auditorium.
Slide from Presentation
Lorriane William M.D. presented a slide show presentation on the history and importance of eradicating polio. This slides show how close we are to eradicating polio in the world.
City Proclimation
Rotarian Jay Flowers presents a Proclimation from the City of Thomasville/Thomas County to President Andre Marria marking October 24, as World Polio Day in the City of Thomasville.
Pioneer Card
Rotarian Nancy Tillinghast was one of the original polio pioneers and this is her original card from when she was vaccinated.
Supporting Parties
At the end of the event Rotarian Jay Flowers, Presentor Lorriane Williams M. D., Superintendent Lisa Williams E. D., President Andre Marria, Past District Governor, Fran Milburge & Nancy Tillinghast celebrate a great event.
World Polio Day Publication
Flyer for Community and New Paper promoting World Polio Day.