May 2023: Brain Tumor Awareness Month

WHEREAS, brain tumors can occur at any age and those that don’t lose their lives are still impacted by loss of memory, sight, balance, coordination, taste, hearing, and the ability to drive, work, or go to school; and,

WHEREAS, despite the numbers and devastating impacts, there are less than 30 FDA-approved drugs and devices to treat over 120 different types of primary brain tumors; and,

WHEREAS, nearly 25,000 malignant brain tumors are expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2023, with 770 cases expected in Michigan; and,

WHEREAS, brain tumors are the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in adults aged 20-39 and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children; and,

WHEREAS, while the risk of cancer death has recently dropped 2 percent per year and brain cancer incidence rates have decreased, five-year survival rates remain low; and,

WHEREAS, some progress has been made by increasing public awareness of brain tumors through advocacy and support for research and education about the impact that brain tumors have on patients and their families’ lives, but more progress and targeted research is needed to find a cure and create a higher quality and longer life for brain tumor patients; and,

WHEREAS, during this month we raise awareness of brain tumors in Michigan, support brain tumor patients and the research efforts of scientists and physicians as they work toward improved, less toxic treatments and an eventual cure; and, 

WHEREAS, we salute the victims of brain tumors who continue to demonstrate great determination, adaptability, and courage in their efforts to live their best lives with this disease, and we pay tribute to those promoting awareness of brain tumors as well as those working to improve treatment, advocate for victims, and provide support;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2023 as Brain Tumor Awareness Month in Michigan.