Pirozzolo Presents Williams Syndrome Resolution
Editor’s note: According to the National Institutes of Health, “Williams syndrome (WS) is a multisystem disorder characterized by cardiovascular disease (elastin arteriopathy, most often manifesting as supravalvar aortic stenosis), developmental delay, usually mild intellectual disability, a specific cognitive profile, unique personality characteristics, connective tissue abnormalities, growth abnormalities, other endocrine manifestations, and distinctive facies. Additional manifestations can include sleep problems, ocular issues, hearing loss, dental problems, gastrointestinal difficulties, urinary tract abnormalities, and musculoskeletal issues.”
Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R,C-Staten Island) and Assemblywoman Jaime Williams presented a Resolution to memorialize Gov. Kathy Hochul to proclaim the month of May 2024 as Williams Syndrome Awareness Month in the state of New York.
Williams Syndrome is a genetic condition present at birth that can affect anyone and is characterized by medical issues, including cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and learning disabilities. These medical conditions often occur side by side with striking verbal abilities, highly social personalities, and an affinity for music. The Williams Syndrome Association, along with the families and friends of those with Williams Syndrome, is to be commended for its hard work, compassion, and dedication to educating New Yorkers about this rare disorder.
“I am extremely delighted to have the Filippazzo and Morello families here with us today as we declare the month of May Williams Syndrome Awareness Month. As a condition with no cure, raising awareness and initiating medical research is essential for advancing Williams Syndrome treatment. Together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of those affected by this rare condition,” said Pirozzolo.
Banner Image: Pictured is Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R,C-Staten Island) along with the Morello and Filippazzo families. Image Credit – Asm. Pirozzolo
Assemlymember Sam Pirozzolo
Sam Pirozzolo is a native Staten Islander. He is a frequent contributor to the Staten Islander, and is well-known and loved by people on both the Right and Left, in his North Shore community. Sam brings people together, instead of dividing, by speaking common sense and analyzing our island's, and city's, issues, with intelligence and concern for all. Sam Pirozzolo was elected to the New York State Assembly on November 8, 2022. The 63rd Assembly District represents parts of Richmond County. Sam has successfully operated his family’s optical practice for 33 years. He is the past president of Community Education Council 31 where he served for seven years. Some of his most notable accomplishments include the creation of a Gifted and Talented program for middle school students, the recommendation for the NYC Department of Education to hire retired police officers as school resource officers, and the successful fight for the immediate cleanup of toxic PCBs leaking from the light fixtures in school classrooms. As an education advocate, Sam has participated in historic litigation that led to the return of more than $4 billion to New York public schools. He also fought to ensure that co-located charter schools receive the same capital funding as their host public schools. While serving in the Legislature, Sam will work to support law enforcement officers with proper funding, fix broken bail and parole policies, and help small businesses grow and thrive in a stronger, more resilient economy.