In 1985, Rotary and its partners made the commitment to eradicate polio from the face of the earth. In that year an average of over 400,000 children were stricken, with crippling effects, with the polio myelitis virus. From 125 countries in 1985 down to two countries in 2019 with active polio cases and some 100 cases reported, we are “this close” to the eradication of this horrible disease.
We can’t stop now. We are so close to winning this battle. With the end in sight for the eradication of polio, we wish to take a moment back in time to rediscover and honor the most important work conducted at Tuskegee University in the treatment and rehabilitation of the polio stricken Black population and the research conducted to fight the disease by Black workers and researchers at Tuskegee.
The Tuskegee Infantile Paralysis Center was the focal point for this treatment and rehabilitation work along with so many dedicated Black physicians and support personnel. Rotary District 6880 along with its 49 supporting local Rotary Clubs have committed to honor and recognize these individuals and facilities by placing a monument in their honor on the grounds of the original Tuskegee Infantile Paralysis Center on the campus of Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama.The monument will consist of a life-size bronze statue depicting Dr. John W. Chenault, nurse Warrena A. Turpin and patient young Gordon Stewart. In addition, a large bronze plaque mounted on a granite base recognizing officers of Tuskegee Institute at this time and the Infantile Paralysis Center Medical and Administration Staff.
Funding for this project will come from the many donors who wish to help us honor those in the fight against the dreaded polio disease and honoring one of the few centers that treated the Black community at the time.
We sincerely invite your support in this important project.
Alternatively, you are welcome to send any personal, club, or district checks made payable to The Rotary District 6880 Foundation. Please designate the purpose.
Mail Checks To:
BancorpSouth
Atttn: Linda Mong
101 Rock Creek Parkway, Fairhope, AL 36532
For More Information Contact;
Bruce McNeal [email protected] 334-791-8921