May 1-10, 2022: Cri Du Chat Syndrome Awareness Week

WHEREAS, each year in the United States alone, approximately 50 to 60 children are born with cri du chat syndrome, also called 5p- syndrome, a rare genetic condition in which a portion of the short arm (p arm) of chromosome 5 is missing; and,

WHEREAS, although the severity of cri du chat syndrome can vary among affected individuals, common characteristics include a high-pitched cry, microcephaly, distinctive facial features, growth delay, and severe developmental disabilities; and,

WHEREAS, children born with this lifelong condition will most likely require ongoing support from a multidisciplinary team of medical specialists, therapists, and educational professionals as well as family to help them achieve their maximum potential; and,

WHEREAS, individuals with cri du chat syndrome deserve to be recognized for what they can do as opposed to what they cannot do; and,

WHEREAS, one of the goals of Cri du Chat Awareness Week is to end the spread of outdated information given to families when their child is diagnosed with the syndrome; and,

WHEREAS, more than 1,000 families are members of the 5p- Society, many of whom live in Michigan; and,

WHEREAS, during this week, we should raise awareness of cri du chat syndrome, provide support to all families affected by this condition, and promote education and research on interventions that will help improve quality of life;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 1-10, 2022 as Cri du Chat Syndrome Awareness Week in Michigan.