Whereas , One-third of those with breast cancer are diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer and they frequently do not tell anyone in fear of being viewed as outcasts and failures; and,

Whereas , According to the American Cancer Society, 178,480 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, and an estimated 30 percent will develop State IV advanced or metastatic breast cancer; and,

Whereas , It is reported that 250,000 Americans are presently living with metastatic breast cancer, and this statistic underscores the immediate need for increased awareness of this devastating disease; and,

Whereas , Those living with metastatic breast cancer should never feel isolated or ignored as this devastating disease is rarely discussed at rallies or support groups; and,

Whereas , Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day emphasizes the urgent need for new targeted breast cancer treatments that will provide a higher quality of life and life expectancy by making State IV cancer a chronic but not fatal disease; and now therefore be it,

Resolved , That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 13, 2008, as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day.