Whereas, Fibromyalgia is a disease with uncertain cause and no known cure; and,

Whereas, This chronic condition affects an estimated seven to ten million men, women and children in the United States and many more millions of people worldwide; and,

Whereas, Fibromyalgia is a very serious and chronic illness, increasing at dramatic rates, causing those affected to suffer with fatigue and debilitating pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the body; and

Whereas, People living with this condition have to learn to live with difficulty in performing everyday activities such as climbing stairs, lifting weight, and many other actions involving physical strain in addition to widespread pain in muscles, joints, and ligaments; and

Whereas, People with Fibromyalgia face discrimination in the workplace and from family and friends because so few people are aware or understand what Fibromyalgia is and the symptoms it manifests; and,

Whereas, A diagnosis of Fibromyalgia is difficult and takes an average of five years because many of the symptoms mimic those of other disorders, resulting in the average person spending thousands of dollars in medical bills just to receive a diagnosis; and,

Whereas, Public awareness is important in order for patients to be able to receive proper diagnosis and treatment and will also help eliminate the myths, improve patient support, and encourage research; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 6, 2005, as Fibromyalgia Awareness Day in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to support those seeking a cure and to assist those individuals and families who deal with this devastating disease on a daily basis.