THIS IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF UNITED STATES SENATOR JAY ROCKEFELLER.

Washington, DC – To honor West Virginia’s historic role in creating Mother’s Day a century ago, Senator Jay Rockefeller has filed legislation that will mint commemorative coins that not only recognize the important role of women in our community, but also help to fund scientific research into cancer and brittle bone disease.

“Mothers make an incredible difference in the life of a child, and are an unending source of love, patience and understanding,” Rockefeller said. “I can think of no better way to honor them, along with West Virginia’s role in creating Mother’s Day, than through this tribute. People across the country can show their affection for the important women in their lives, and help to advance crucial medical research, by purchasing this keepsake coin.”

Rockefeller’s legislation, the Mother’s Day Centennial Commemorative Coin Act, would require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins commemorating the centennial of the establishment of Mother’s Day in West Virginia. Proceeds from the sale of these coins will help the fight against breast cancer and osteoporosis by benefiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

One hundred years ago, Anna Jarvis of Grafton, WV, honored her recently departed mother’s life by passing out white carnations. Anna’s simple act of personal commemoration in May 1908 grew year after year. Just two years later in 1910, the State of West Virginia recognized Grafton's efforts and established an official Mother’s Day. The first state to do so, West Virginia set a precedent that many soon followed. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the first national Mother’s Day.

“What started out at as simple act on the streets of Grafton is now celebrated in every community across the nation and quite a few countries around the globe,” Rockefeller said. “My wife Sharon will tell you that there’s no better gift on Mother’s Day than the one that comes from the heart. Giving these coins is a simple, heart-felt gesture that shows our mothers, grandmothers, daughters and nieces, just how much we care and appreciate them.”

Senator Robert Byrd is an original co-sponsor of Rockefeller’s Mother’s Day Centennial Commemorative Coin Act which is a Senate companion bill to legislation introduced last year by Congresswoman Shelley Capito in the House of Representatives.