Senator Serphin R. Maltese named Cheryl Lynn Marsh of Glendale as a recipient of the 2008 New York Senate Achievers’ Award. The prestigious award recognizes an individual’s ability to overcome personal challenges and honors their accomplishments.
"The Achievers’ Award is an honor that recognizes the triumph of individuals over sometimes daunting challenges and is bestowed on those whose efforts serve as an example of courage, personal excellence and achievement for our entire community," said Senator Maltese.
"I am especially pleased to honor Cheryl for her dedication to helping others and her positive attitude in spite of the adversity she has had to face in her life. She is an inspiration to us all," said Senator Maltese.
In her twenties, Cheryl was diagnosed with systemic lupus, a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs and nervous system. When her middle daughter was diagnosed with autism, Cheryl refocused her energies and became involved with New York Families for Autistic Children. Ms. Marsh believed so wholeheartedly with NYFAC’s important role in her family’s life that she is now Chairman of the Executive Board of Directors.
Ms. Marsh was recognized by Senator Maltese and the entire State Senate in a special ceremony at the State Capitol in Albany and presented with an Achievers’ Award and Legislative Proclamation.
"Rather than viewing her lupus and her daughter’s autism as impediments, she believes they are opportunities to help others," said Senator Maltese.
The New York State Senate Achievers’ Awards are presented in conjunction with Senate Disability Awareness Day, an annual event sponsoring by the Senate to raise public awareness of the efforts and accomplishments of citizens with physical disabilities.
-30-
|