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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October 01, 2022
WHEREAS, Rett syndrome is a rare postnatal onset genetic neurological disorder that occurs almost exclusively in females, with an incidence of approximately 1 in 10,000; and,
WHEREAS, females with Rett syndrome develop normally for the first 6 to 18 months of life before experiencing regression in language, motor skills, and behavior, leading to severe impairments that typically include loss of speech and purposeful hand use, autistic behaviors, motor difficulties, seizures, intellectual disability, and breathing irregularities; and,
WHEREAS, the hallmark sign of Rett syndrome is distinctive and near constant repetitive hand movements; and,
WHEREAS, those diagnosed with Rett syndrome require maximum assistance with daily living activities for their entire lives; and,
WHEREAS, with recent scientific advancements, including the identification of the gene that causes Rett syndrome (1999), evidence supporting reversibility of the disease (2007), development of a cell-culture derived Rett syndrome research model (2010), and the launch of five disease-modifying human clinical trials (current), we now reach an unprecedented and historic moment in time where we must do everything possible to advance research that will create truly life-changing solutions for all with Rett syndrome; and,
WHEREAS, The International Rett Syndrome Foundation is one of the world’s largest private funding sources for Rett syndrome research, addressing the full spectrum of this developmental disorder and advocating to improve the quality of life for patients and their families; and,
WHEREAS, we must continue our efforts to bring awareness of Rett syndrome to the medical community, pharmaceutical industry, researchers, therapists, teachers, caregivers, and the general public and help ensure funding for researchers dedicated to finding a cure for Rett syndrome. We support this shared mission now more than ever, and together, progress will continue until there is a world without Rett syndrome;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2022 as Rett Syndrome Awareness Month in Michigan.