WHEREAS, children with medical complexity and disabilities deserve the opportunity to live full, joyful, and meaningful lives in their homes, schools, and communities with their families and peers; and 

WHEREAS, families and caregivers play an essential role in navigating complex systems of care and advocating for the services and supports their children need to thrive; and 

WHEREAS, access to healthcare, education, home and community-based services, and inclusive communities is critical to ensuring that children with complex medical needs and disabilities can reach their full potential and live their best lives; and 

WHEREAS, Caregivers, families, and advocates for medically complex and disabled children uplift the voices of children and families to help shape policies that strengthen healthcare access and community inclusion; and  

WHEREAS, increasing public awareness fosters inclusion, reduces stigma, and strengthens support for health care, education, and community integration;  

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize June 19, 2026, as MEDICALLY COMPLEX AND DISABLED CHILDREN’S AWARENESS DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.