State Senator Cliff Hite (R-Findlay) was honored by the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics on Friday for his work to educate and protect Ohioans from meningitis.
“I am honored to receive this award and appreciate the support of those in the pediatric health community who have joined this effort to raise awareness about preventable diseases among Ohio families,” said Hite. “Together, we are saving lives.”
Hite was awarded the prestigious Dr. Antoinette Parisi Eaton Advocacy Award, which is presented annually to an individual who advocates for children and furthers the mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
“There are no words to accurately express what it’s like to have someone like Senator Hite in your corner,” said Sam Bennett, a meningitis survivor and pediatric health advocate. “I’ll always be grateful for his efforts to educate and protect our state from meningitis. He cares and—from a survivor’s point of view—that means everything.”
Earlier this year, the Ohio Senate passed legislation, sponsored by Senator Hite, to require students to be immunized against meningitis.
Last year the Ohio Senate honored the memory of Senator Hite’s niece, Tess, by designating March 9 as “Meningitis Awareness Day.” Tess passed away within hours after contracting meningitis.
