SNELLVILLE – Sept. 12 was named Amanda Riley Day in the city.
On Monday, Mayor Tom Witts named the day after the young Brookwood High School student who passed away following her battle with cancer in 2010.
"From this day forward, in honor of her courage, selflessness and inspiration to other children, Sept. 12 shall be known as 'Amanda Riley Day' in the city of Snellville," Witts said. "I commend the Amanda Riley Foundation and (parents) Barbara and Steve Riley for their dedication to fighting childhood cancer and bringing smiles to kids with cancer. I encourage all of Snellville's citizens ... to help bring a smile to the face of a young person fighting childhood cancer."
Amanda was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 16 and after a courageous 405-day fight, she passed away April 9, 2010. Her fight and legacy became a symbol of childhood cancer. Known for her kindness, beautiful smile and generosity, she was a three-sport varsity athlete at BHS.
Last year it was announced the basketball courts at T.W. Briscoe Park will be named after Amanda. A dedication ceremony will take place in the upcoming months, city officials said Monday.
The Amanda Riley Foundation, a Snellville non-profit, was founded by Amanda's parents in her honor. The foundation has helped countless children with cancer. Her parents were on hand to accept the proclamation Monday.
Nationwide, September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with the hope it will increase awareness about the issue of childhood cancer, including the need for early detection, prompt treatment, new medications, continued research and attention on the late term effects of treatment on childhood cancer survivors.
For more information about Amanda and the Amanda Riley Foundation visit amandarileyfoundation.org.