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June 6, 2020: Transverse Myelitis Awareness Day
November 20, 2020
WHEREAS, Transverse Myelitis is a disease with approximately 1,400 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year, but is not widely recognized by the general public as being a significant, serious spinal cord disease; and,
WHEREAS, Transverse Myelitis is a devastating condition, affecting the neurological system, caused by inflammation of the spinal cord, and can occur as a single condition or in the presence of another illness; and,
WHEREAS, symptoms of Transverse Myelitis include weakness of the extremities and lower back pain, and, as the condition progresses, numbness, paralysis, sensory loss, bowel, and bladder dysfunction may occur; and,
WHEREAS, scientific research indicates that Transverse Myelitis affects approximately 1-4 people out of every 1 million; and,
WHEREAS, recovering from Transverse Myelitis can be difficult, with only one-third of persons diagnosed with the disease making a full recovery; and,
WHEREAS, increased awareness of Transverse Myelitis will help accomplish improvements in diagnosis and further scientific research, and it is abundantly fitting and appropriate to recognize Transverse Myelitis Awareness Day;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 6, 2020, as Transverse Myelitis Awareness Day in Michigan.