25 LC 129 0016
Senate Resolution 149
By: Senators Halpern of the 39th, Jackson of the 41st, Merritt of the 9th, Parent of the 44th,
Orrock of the 36th and others
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending the Shepherd Center upon its 50th anniversary; and for other
1
purposes.2
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center was founded in Atlanta, Georgia, as a private not-for-profit3
hospital on August 18, 1975, and it is celebrating 50 years of service; and 4
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center's mission is to help individuals with temporary or5
permanent disabilities caused by injury or disease rebuild their lives with hope,6
independence, and dignity; advocate for their full inclusion in all aspects of community life;7
and promote safety and injury prevention; and8
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center has made a profound impact on the citizens of Georgia and9
countless individuals worldwide by providing personalized rehabilitation and medical care10
for those experiencing brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain,11
and other neurological conditions; and12
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center has played a vital role in the community by leading the13
1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games Organizing Committee, founding the wheelchair division14
S. R. 149
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of the AJC Peachtree Road Race, advocating for accessible public accommodations and
15
transportation, and bringing honor as a global leader in neuro-rehabilitation research and16
innovation; and17
WHEREAS, each year in the United States, approximately 300,000 people are newly18
diagnosed with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and multiple sclerosis,19
underscoring the critical need for specialized care and rehabilitation provided by institutions20
such as the Shepherd Center; and21
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center's culture of hope, humor, and hard work continues to22
inspire its patients, families, staff, and the broader community.23
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body24
recognize and commend the Shepherd Center upon its 50th anniversary and extend sincere25
best wishes for continued success.26
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed27
to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Shepherd28
Center. 29
S. R. 149
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