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.
Search is currently unavailable. Please try again later.
The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
May 17, 2022
WHEREAS, Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a type of tumor that starts in the brain stem and controls breathing, nerves, and muscles, which can cause problems with everyday functions; and,
WHEREAS, brain tumors are one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in children; and,
WHEREAS, DIPG is the most common malignant brain tumor found in children, with over 75 percent of brainstem tumors being DIPG; and,
WHEREAS, according to the DIPG/DMG Resource Network, DIPG affects between 150 and 300 children in the United States each year. The average age at diagnosis is 6 to 7 years old, with a median overall survival of 8-11 months, and a 5-year survival rate of only approximately 2 percent; and,
WHEREAS, DIPG currently remains incurable, despite decades of clinical trials; and,
WHEREAS, through the work of the DIPG Registry, new data is being used to influence research toward improving treatments and outcomes; and,
WHEREAS, on this day, we should provide support to those who have DIPG and their families and caregivers, raise awareness of this disease, and promote further research and treatment;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 17, 2022, as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) Awareness Day.