The picture shows a line for the (new at the time) polio vaccine. Polio had been a scourge in the United States, and the world, for decades. That we can refer to it in the past tense in this country is a testament to the dedication of scientists, medical staff, researchers, people like us who helped fund and deliver vaccinations around the world - and these people, who lined up to get vaccinated and stop the spread.
For many years, Polio has been a primary focus of Rotary around the world, and District 6900 has played an important role. We have accomplished so much, but we can’t stop until we cross the finish line and polio no longer exists. Coronavirus has, in many ways, overshadowed thoughts of polio. However just this past June four polio workers were killed by gunmen in Afghanistan. For polio to be completely eradicated we, as Rotarians, need to stay focused and continue our awareness and fundraising campaigns.
Look for announcements about District 6900 plans for World Polio Day on October 24 and look for ideas for your club at endpolio.org. We are going to have another great Rotary year and polio eradication will be at the forefront. If you have an interest in serving on the District 6900 polio committee and playing a lead role in this important work, please contact Dr. Paddy Sharma at paddysharma27@gmail.com, Reda Rowell at reda.rowell@gsw.edu, or Manoj Barot at rtnmanojbarot@gmail.com