In my opinion, it is only fitting that December of each year, Rotary designates as Disease Prevention and Treatment Month. What our organization does for humanity is a gift indeed. A gift of life to so many. To many more, a gift of improved quality of life and less suffering for those that need our help the most. We believe strongly that good health care is a basic right for everyone. It is estimated that over 400 million in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care.
Diseases result in misery, pain, and poverty for millions of people worldwide. There are 39,000 deaths each day in world from communicable diseases. That means 1 death out of every 4 is transmitted from one person to the next and is more easily prevented than non-communicable or chronic diseases. This is the realm for Rotary’s effort around the world.
Rotary leads efforts on both large-scale endeavors as well as small. We set up temporary clinics, blood donation centers, and training facilities in underserved communities struggling with outbreaks and health care access. We design and build infrastructure that allows doctors, patients, and governments to work together.
We all know what Rotary has done for polio. The same framework and model is being used for the prevention and treatment of Covid-19 by many different organizations in numerous countries in all parts of the world. But that is not the whole story, our members also combat diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes as well.
The best treatment is prevention, which is why we also focus on health education and bringing people routine hearing, vision, and dental care. Our focus on clean water and antiquate sanitation is vital to the overall health and well-being for all. The world relies on Rotary to tackle these global challenges. We have set the example for others to follow.
Our work is not done. Men and women of Rotary around the world tackle basic health problems as well as disease prevention and treatment every day. Your club and you can help. Give generously to the Rotary Foundation and to the Polio Plus initiative. Participate in local and area service projects when you can. Support your club’s effort in initiating or supporting other club’s Global Grants that address Disease Prevention and Treatment. Since 2014, 3694 disease prevention and treatment grants totaling USD $271 million were awarded by The Rotary Foundation. Be active an part in this process.
Lastly, my thoughts on what we as everyday Rotarians can do to help with the current “elephant in the room”: Covid-19. We owe it to our community, our family, and ourself to do what is necessary to prevent contracting and spreading this dastardly disease. Experts say that we can prevent 90% of the incidents of spreading the disease by wearing a mask and practicing social distancing. Along with washing our hands regularly, we can perhaps stave off catching or spreading the Covid-19 virus until the vaccines are available.
Together, all this month, let’s celebrate Rotary’s Disease Prevention and Treatment efforts. Let’s do what we can to make this a better world. Let’s do what we can to keep us all safe. Let’s promote what we do by showing the world what we do! Be the best Rotarian you can be. I hope that you and your family have a fantastic Holiday Season. May God Bless you All.
Rick Stacy
District Governor 5870