By JONI TRUEX
Secretary, Kiwanis Club of Warsaw

Three Kiwanis Club of Warsaw members were recently recognized for their contributions to the Eliminate project.

Eliminate Chairman Michael Bergen; President Renea Salyer and Secretary Joni Truex, were each presented with a Hixson award.

In order to receive the Hixson, a member must contribute over $1,000 to the Kiwanis International Eliminate Project. This award consists of a pin, medallion and framed award certificate.

The Eliminate Project is a joint effort between Kiwanis International and UNICEF to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus. This deadly disease steals the lives of nearly 60,000 innocent babies and a significant number of women each year. The effects of the disease are excruciating; tiny newborns suffer repeated, painful convulsions and extreme sensitivity to light and touch.

To eliminate Maternal Neonatal Tetanus from the Earth, more than 100 million mothers and their future babies must be immunized. This requires vaccines, syringes, safe storage, transportation, thousands of skilled staff and more. It will take $110 million and the dedicated work of UNICEF and every member of the Kiwanis family to ensure the success of this project.

According to the Kiwanis International Eliminate website, $76 million has been raised. There are 24 countries remaining with Maternal Neonatal Tetanus disease.

Congratulations to these three for giving generously to help eliminate this dreadful disease.