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2016 SESSION

16104024D
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 216
Offered January 27, 2016
Celebrating the life of Carol Willoughby.
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Patrons-- Rasoul; Senator: Edwards
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WHEREAS, Carol Willoughby of Roanoke, the cofounder of Saint Francis Service Dogs who touched countless lives through her advocacy and support for Virginians with disabilities, died on November 11, 2015; and

WHEREAS, after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 22, Carol Willoughby was inspired to help others and established one of the first support groups for people with arthritis in the Commonwealth, which served as a model for similar groups in other communities; and

WHEREAS, Carol Willoughby joined the board of directors of the Virginia Arthritis Foundation and founded a consulting service for disability awareness; she encouraged people with disabilities to become active, productive members of their communities through seminars and speeches; and

WHEREAS, in 1986, Carol Willoughby received her first service dog, a golden retriever named Booker, who significantly increased her quality of life by helping her with household chores and giving her and her family peace of mind; and

WHEREAS, the difference that Booker made in Carol Willoughby’s life inspired her to help establish Saint Francis Service Dogs, a nonprofit organization that offers service animals to individuals in need at a fraction of training costs; and

WHEREAS, after serving as executive director of Saint Francis Service Dogs for five years, Carol Willoughby moved into an advisory role and expanded the organization’s fundraising programs; she helped the organization reach a $1 million capital campaign goal and was instrumental in securing a $1.5 million donation in 2009; and

WHEREAS, Carol Willoughby and her second service dog, Midas, continued to be an inspiration in the community; through Carol Willoughby’s grace, positivity, and exceptional leadership, she helped countless Virginians overcome disabilities and lead fuller, happier lives; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of Carol Willoughby, a passionate advocate for Virginians with disabilities; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Carol Willoughby as an expression of the General Assembly’s respect for her memory.