WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia formally observes the month of March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a period dedicated to increasing public understanding of colorectal cancer and promoting the importance of early detection and screening; and 

WHEREAS, colorectal cancer remains the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States and the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer within the Commonwealth of Virginia, underscoring the continued need for vigilance and public health education; and  

WHEREAS, the year 2026 marks the twenty‑sixth anniversary of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, first established in 2000 through a presidential proclamation issued by President Bill Clinton; and 

WHEREAS, in 2009, Dress in Blue Day—observed annually on the first Friday in March—was created by stage IV colon cancer survivor Anita Mitchell to further elevate national awareness of colorectal cancer and honor those affected by the disease; and 

WHEREAS, colorectal cancer screening methods, including colonoscopy and stool‑based tests, have been proven effective in reducing both the incidence of and mortality from colorectal cancer, yet one in three adults over the age of fifty remains overdue for recommended screenings; and 

WHEREAS, by 2030, colorectal cancer is projected to become the leading cause of cancer‑related death among individuals ages 20 to 49, highlighting an urgent need for expanded education, prevention, and early detection efforts; and 

WHEREAS, nurses, gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia continue to deliver exceptional care, expertise, and support to Virginians courageously confronting colorectal cancer; and 

WHEREAS, hospitals and cancer centers across the Commonwealth—including UVA Health, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Inova Schar Cancer Institute, and Bon Secours Southside Regional Medical Center—have emerged as national leaders in advancing innovative, high‑quality care for patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer; and 

WHEREAS, colorectal cancer survivors in the Commonwealth of Virginia—including Tiffany Freeman of Carroll County, Ronnie Dixon Jr. of Virginia Beach, and Stanley Meador of Galax—continue to exemplify courage and provide enduring hope through their steadfast advocacy and distinguished leadership on behalf of those confronting the disease; and 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize March 2026, as COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.