Jimmy Carter

“ No American child should die or suffer needless handicaps from diseases for which safe and effective vaccines are readily available. Neither should any child be deprived of adequate nutrition or a safe environment. While pushing back the walls of our knowledge and improving medical techniques may be restricted to scientists and medical experts, this is an area where every citizen can have an impact on giving our children the opportunity for better health, both now and in the years to come. ”

“ I invite all Americans, as well as all agencies and organizations dedicated to the well-being of children, to unite on that day in support of activities that will alert each of us to our separate and collective responsibilities to protect and enhance the health of America's children and to provide them with the opportunity to live in safety and to grow up strong and knowledgeable about their own and their families' health needs. ”

“ But it is tragic for a child to die or endure lifelong handicaps from conditions we can prevent. Although such diseases as polio, measles, rubella, diphtheria and whooping cough have been subdued for the time being, they are not beaten. It is in our power to protect all our children, but nearly 40 per cent of those under the age of 15 are inadequately immunized. ”