SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Adriane Johnson named March 6, 2024 as Rare Disease Day in Illinois.

“People with rare diseases often face two battles: the disease itself and the lack of understanding from people around them,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “It is time we bring more awareness and education to rare diseases and how we can help and uplift those suffering.

Senate Resolution 726 declares March 6, 2024 as Rare Disease Day in order to raise awareness and highlight the need for research and funding to support the discovery and development of therapies designed to treat or potentially cure these rare diseases. Nearly 30 million Americans are affected by rare diseases, half of whom are children.

“We must not only bring more awareness to rare diseases, but continue to fight for increased research and funding to help tackle the issue head on,” said Johnson. “This Rare Disease Day, I encourage you to learn more about the struggles many of our neighbors face and how you can advocate for change.”

Senate Resolution 726 passed the Senate Wednesday.

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson is hosting a meeting with State Representative Rita Mayfield regarding Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan losing its trauma center designation, causing people with serious injuries to have to be transported to hospitals more than 20 minutes away.

“I have been working to ensure that we create substantial solutions to the issue regarding Vista Medical Center East’s trauma center designation,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “This revocation will greatly impact residents – both patients and employees alike – and it is imperative that we intervene.”

The meeting will take place on Saturday, March 9 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Patricia A. Jones Center located at Park Place, 414 S. Lewis Ave. in Waukegan. This meeting is open to the public and also available virtually via Zoom, linked here.

For more information, residents can contact Johnson’s office at (847) 672-6201.

WAUKEGAN – Thanks to strong support from State Senator Adriane Johnson, a Lincolnshire transit provider was awarded more than $300,000 to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options.

“Reliable transportation services are vital to helping our communities thrive,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “Lincolnshire will be better equipped to connect our residents to their community by providing transportation for anyone who needs it.”

Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles will be delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The Riverside Foundation, a community-based not-for-profit organization that assists adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is set to receive four vehicles, totaling $374,000.

“The Riverside Foundation is essential to empowering our residents with developmental and intellectual delays,” said Johnson. “The new vehicles will ensure all residents can be active participants within the community.”

A full list of awardees can be found here.

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson is uniting with State Representative Rita Mayfield in hosting a Self-Care Health Fair to kick off a six-month-long initiative to provide affordable mental health resources to local residents.

“We had a successful turnout for our Self-Care Health fair, ensuring residents are aware of the resources available in our backyard,” said Johnson (D – Buffalo Grove). “This vital six-month long community service project will continue to connect residents with free therapy services from licensed professionals.”

Licensed therapists will be present March 2 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to provide counsel and resources to the public at the Eleanor Murkey Community Center of College of Lake County, located at 34 N. Sheridan Rd., Waukegan.

People seeking therapy do not need to make an appointment. Licensed therapists interested in volunteering are encouraged to sign up here.

“There is an increase in need for mental health care, yet many people are unable to afford therapy,” said Johnson. “In hosting the Self-Care Saturdays, we are able to bring awareness and resources to those who need it most.”

Johnson’s office is available to answer questions by calling 847-672-6201 or visiting her website.