On July 17th, the COPD Community lost one of its best friends, Congressman John Lewis. We have all been aware of Congressman Lewis’ lifetime contributions to civil rights, as well as his service to our country as a Congressman representing Georgia’s 5th Congressional District. However, few are aware that he was a staunch supporter and advocate for persons with chronic lung diseases, especially COPD.
“Representative Lewis was one of the Congressional COPD Caucus’ Co-Chairs, and he volunteered for that leadership position early in the formation of the Coalition”, stated Sam Giordano, Chair of the US COPD Coalition Board of Directors. “We have far too few supporters in Congress willing to rally support among their peers on behalf of our COPD patients. Congressman Lewis was one of our strongest supporters. We will miss him. May God rest his soul.”