Statement by CDC Director Dr. Julie Gerberding Regarding Resignation of HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson

As Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Tommy Thompson has been a remarkable champion for the health protection of every American. His passionate leadership engaged the whole department in combating the common health problems that affect people every day -- problems like diabetes, heart disease, breast cancer, smoking, obesity, and injury. At the same time, he motivated our efforts to protect our nation from terrorism and emerging threats like SARS, monkeypox, and avian influenza.

Secretary Thompson is an extraordinary health ambassador. People around the world have learned about Americans compassion through the causes he has championed. He touched the lives of people in every walk of life -- children orphaned by AIDS in Africa, infants disabled by polio in India, pregnant women seeking prenatal care in Afghanistan.

Tommy Thompson is a great Secretary. He leaves us a safer and healthier world as his legacy. He is also the first to remind us that our work is not done yet!

Source: CDC