May 4, 2019: Heterotaxy Syndrome Awareness Day

WHEREAS, heterotaxy syndrome is a congenital condition in which the heart and other organs in the chest and abdomen develop in the wrong position within the body; and,

 

WHEREAS, heterotaxy syndrome can have many possible causes and widely variable symptoms; and,

 

WHEREAS, heterotaxy syndrome is a complex medical condition that often requires a team of specialists to treat the different body systems affected; and,

 

WHEREAS, heterotaxy syndrome is relatively unknown to the public as well as many health professionals. Families struggle to inform and educate medical teams on the complex symptoms and are often the only common thread between medical specialties; and,

 

WHEREAS, mortality is high, but improved surgical techniques and medical expertise have raised survival rates; and,

 

WHEREAS, further research and funding are needed to improve treatments and better understand the causes of heterotaxy syndrome; and,

 

WHEREAS, Heterotaxy Syndrome Awareness Day provides an opportunity for families whose lives have been affected to celebrate life, remember loved ones lost, honor dedicated health professionals, and find support from others; and,

 

WHEREAS, the establishment of Heterotaxy Syndrome Awareness Day will also provide the opportunity to share experiences and information with the public and the media in order to raise awareness about heterotaxy syndrome;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 4, 2019, as Heterotaxy Syndrome Awareness Day in Michigan.