H*5212 Concurrent Resolution, By Bernstein
 A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE GLENN AND CARA O'NEILL FAMILY OF
 RICHLAND COUNTY FOR THEIR COURAGE AND TO WISH THEM THE RICHEST BLESSINGS OF
 GOD IN THE DAYS AHEAD.

   05/07/14  House  Introduced, adopted, sent to Senate
                     (House Journal-page 12)
   05/07/14  Senate Introduced, adopted, returned with concurrence
                     (Senate Journal-page 5)

TO COMMEND THE GLENN AND CARA O'NEILL FAMILY OF RICHLAND COUNTY FOR THEIR COURAGE AND TO WISH THEM THE RICHEST BLESSINGS OF GOD IN THE DAYS AHEAD.

Whereas, in the face of unexpected and serious health challenges, Richland County's Glenn and Cara O'Neill and their children have had their courage, determination, and endurance strongly tested. Their response to these challenges has proven that all three qualities are firmly grounded in the O'Neills; and

Whereas, as a result, they have been an inspiration to all who have watched them go through their trials with grace; and

Whereas, in July 2013, little Eliza O'Neill, Glenn and Cara's daughter, was diagnosed with a rare terminal genetic disease called Sanfilippo Syndrome-Type A. In one terrifying instant, these parents were told they could expect to watch their child fade away before their eyes; and

Whereas, Eliza and other children with Sanfilippo Syndrome are missing an essential enzyme for normal cellular function. Over time, a toxic material called heparan sulfate builds up in their brains and bodies, leading to severe disability and death before they reach their teens. The disease affects both genders, all races, and all countries and continents; and

Whereas, at present, Eliza is a fun-loving four-year-old who likes to sing, run, cuddle, play dress-up, and romp with her big brother, Beckham. She is, however, beginning to show signs of the disease in her learning and attention, and if nothing changes, her condition will continue to deteriorate; and

Whereas, by age six, most children with Eliza's disease have irreversible brain damage and lose the ability to speak. As the disease progresses, they also lose the ability to walk and eventually can't even feed themselves as seizures ravage their bodies. Every moment counts as these children approach the tipping point when their disease will take an irreversible turn for the worse; and

Whereas, the good news, however, is that there now is hope for Eliza and the other victims of Sanfilippo Syndrome. In late 2014, a gene-therapy trial designed specifically for children with Sanfilippo Syndrome is scheduled. This treatment would stop progression of the disease overnight and save Eliza, as explained on the O'Neills' Web site, www.gofundme.com/ElizaONeill, for those who desire to support the family and learn more about their story; and

Whereas, the South Carolina General Assembly rejoices with the O'Neills that curative treatment for Eliza has been created and pray that all needful resources for her participation will be in place at the proper time. In addition, the members with one voice offer their grateful thanks to God for the fine example of fortitude demonstrated by this little daughter of South Carolina and her family. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, commend the Glenn and Cara O'Neill family of Richland County for their courage and wish them the richest blessings of God in the days ahead.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Glenn, Cara, Beckham, and Eliza O'Neill.