State Senator Len Fasano Applauds Passage of Bill Providing More Education on Umbilical Cord Banking and Donation

Hartford, CT – State Senator Len Fasano (R-34) today applauded the passage of HB 6678: An Act Concerning Revisions to Department of Public Health Licensing Statutes. The large public health bill performs many functions but Senator Fasano, along with Senator Dan Debicella (R-21), pushed hard to have a provision included that would require doctors and other healthcare providers to give maternity patients “timely, relevant and appropriate information” regarding the option to bank or donate umbilical cord blood.

“This legislation is a tremendous step forward in providing what could be life-saving information to parents,” said Senator Fasano. “Banking umbilical cord blood stem cells gives families options for treatment should a child develop a potentially life-threatening disease like leukemia. The stem cells can also be donated to a public bank which can then be searched and used to treat patients around the world who may be a match.”

Senator Fasano was made aware of the need for this legislation after hearing from a constituent at the Kacey Rose Foundation. The foundation was created in memory of Kacey Rose Mitchell. At the age of two Kacey Rose was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia and underwent several rounds of chemotherapy. As part of her treatment she eventually received a transplant using cord blood stem cells that had been donated.

Krista Harvey with the Kacey Rose Foundation said, “We are extremely grateful to the Connecticut General Assembly and Senator Fasano in particular for his work to have this important language included in the bill. Senator Fasano took the time to listen and support The Kacey Rose Foundation in our efforts to increase public awareness and promote umbilical cord blood donations in Connecticut, which can help save lives around the world!”
“I had the opportunity to spend some time with the Mitchell’s recently, learning about their experience in treating their daughter Kacey Rose,” said Senator Fasano. “Their commitment, and the commitment of their foundation, to provide education and assistance to families struggling through crisis is an inspiration and a tribute to their daughter. I am proud to have helped get this important legislation passed.”

For more on the Kacey Rose Foundation visit: www.kaceyrose.com

Senator Fasano represents the 34th District communities of North Haven, East Haven and Wallingford. His press secretary is Rachel Reese. She may be reached at 860.240.8865 or via email at [email protected].