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March 2024: Neuromyelitis Optica Awareness Month

WHEREAS, neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare and relatively unknown autoimmune disease that currently has no cure; and,

WHEREAS, NMO attacks the central nervous system and can cause permanent disability, including blindness and paralysis; and,

WHEREAS, the cause of NMO is still a mystery, and although FDA-approved treatments are available, they may not benefit all patients; and,

WHEREAS, when mistaken for other similar neuroinflammatory disorders, incorrect treatments can exacerbate NMO symptoms; and,

WHEREAS, increased awareness of the disease has allowed doctors to better recognize the varying manifestations of NMO; and,

WHEREAS, the NMO community is dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of this disease in order to promote research, improve patient care and outcomes, and ultimately find a cure;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2024 as Neuromyelitis Optica Awareness Month in Michigan.