Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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May 16, 2021
WHEREAS, congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect that occurs in early fetal development in which a hole in the diaphragm allows organs in the abdomen to move into the chest, crowding the lungs and preventing them from growing normally; and,
WHEREAS, it is estimated that one in every 2,500 babies is born with CDH, but only one third of them will survive; and,
WHEREAS, CDH is due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors and is sometimes associated with other birth defects; and,
WHEREAS, those with CDH require surgery during infancy and may have lifelong medical complications such as heart defects, pulmonary hypertension, respiratory disease, gastrointestinal problems, and neurologic impairment; and,
WHEREAS, although approximately 40 babies are born with CDH in Michigan every year, many people have never heard of the condition; and,
WHEREAS, raising awareness of CDH will help create understanding and support for those affected and their families as well as emphasize continued advocacy and medical research;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2021 as Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness Month in Michigan.