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Blue ribbons recognize child abuse prevention month by Gale Horinbein, MSW, LMSW MUSC SCAN (Suspected Child Abuse & Neglect) Coordinator Everyday, three children in the United States die as a result of maltreatment. More than 3 million children nationally are reported as abused or neglected each year.  In l999, more than 20,000 child abuse cases were reported in South Carolina involving about 45,000 children. Fifteen children died as a result of child abuse, 14 of which were under the age of 4 (12 were under the age of 1). Experts believe that many cases go unreported and will never be brought to the attention of the state's Child Protective Services agencies or law enforcement. These statistics are alarming and demonstrate the fact that child maltreatment is a major public health issue that continues to be a threat to the well-being of the nation's children.  Thankfully, many communities are becoming involved in programs and events that promote the prevention of child abuse. The National Exchange Club Center's Blue Ribbon Campaign is held each April to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month. The campaign helps to raise awareness about the impact of child maltreatment and its prevention, plus inspires others to find solutions. Throughout April, individuals are encouraged to wear a blue ribbon to symbolize their commitment to protect children.  The campaign was initiated in l989 by a Virginia grandmother, Bonnie Finney, to pay tribute to her 3-year-old grandson, Michael Dickinson, who was killed by his mother's abusive boyfriend.   Following her grandson's death, Finney began a personal crusade to help protect children.  She tied a blue ribbon to her van's antennae reminding herself and others of the terrible beatings that her grandson had sustained. April's observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month is an annual opportunity to remind ourselves of our collective responsibility to prevent the abuse and neglect that robs so many of our society's children of their childhood, sense of security and well-being.  We know that the cycle of child abuse can be prevented through e arly intervention, support and providing preventive services to families. Please get involved. Wear a blue ribbon during April and support the prevention of child abuse. To order blue ribbons call 792-8947. For more information about Child Abuse Prevention Month visit the National Exchange Club's Web site at <http://www.preventchildabuse.org>.