In the wake of the destructive typhoon in the Philippines, I have uncovered some frightening statistics.

The World Health Organization estimates nearly 12 million people in the Philippines (approximately 13 percent of the population) are at risk of dying from malaria. Unfortunately, that estimate was made prior to the typhoon, and now many more are at risk.

Leaders from around the world will meet in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 3 to pledge financial support for the Global Fund to fight the world’s deadliest pandemics: AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. In order to continue these efforts, the Global Fund is asking the U.S. to pledge $5 billion over three years. This pledge would be a continuation of the planned $1.65 billion contribution for this year.

This strong show of support from the U.S. will encourage the international community to increase its support of the Global Fund.

Please join in encouraging our U.S. leadership to support a $5 billion commitment to the Global Fund, which will provide hope to countries, like the Philippines, that desperately need our support.

Laura Van Dyke
Bainbridge Island