Snohomish County Council adopts resolution recognizing CDH Awareness Day after staff member shares daughter's story

The Snohomish County Council unanimously approved Resolution 26-012 on April 21, 2026, recognizing April 19, 2026, as Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) Awareness Day following an emotional testimony from a council staff member.

Cassie, who said she has worked for the council for 15 years, told the council her daughter Summer was born with CDH and “was intubated immediately at birth and transferred from UW to Seattle Children’s for her life saving care.” Cassie said that when Summer was born more than a decade ago CDH carried about a 50 percent survival rate; she said Seattle Children’s now reports survival rates above 90 percent and has a dedicated CDH program.

Several council members thanked Cassie for raising awareness and for the personal perspective. Council member Lowe said the continued work to connect families and clinicians is important for follow-up care. Jasmine Raniere and other council voices similarly praised Cassie’s advocacy and the opportunity the resolution provides to increase public awareness.

A council member moved to approve Resolution 26-012 and the motion was seconded. Chair Dunne called the question; the roll call produced unanimous approval with the chair voting aye. The council said it would take a commemorative photo later in the day.

The resolution highlights the county’s recognition of CDH Awareness Month and the role of local medical centers in improving outcomes for infants born with the condition. The council recessed the administrative session to proceed to committee hearings scheduled at 10 a.m.