May 2025: Myositis Awareness Month

WHEREAS, residents of Michigan are among those affected by myositis and other rare diseases, as nearly one in ten Americans live with a rare disease; and,

WHEREAS, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (collectively referred to as myositis) are rare, chronic, autoimmune disorders characterized by muscle inflammation and symptoms such as weakness, pain, fatigue, and trouble swallowing, sometimes also leading to myositis-associated interstitial lung disease; and,

WHEREAS, further research is essential to identify the causes of and effective treatments for the myositis group of diseases, which most commonly includes inclusion body myositis, dermatomyositis, juvenile myositis, necrotizing myopathy, and polymyositis; and,

WHEREAS, myositis is challenging to diagnose, often resulting in delayed treatment, and individuals frequently experience difficulties in finding health care providers with expertise in their condition; and,

WHEREAS, individuals with myositis, for which no cure has been found, experience a diminished quality of life and reduced life expectancy, particularly those with inclusion body myositis; and minoritized individuals with various forms of myositis face significant health disparities; and,

WHEREAS, The Myositis Association (TMA) is the leading international patient advocacy organization serving the myositis community, focusing on patient services, education, research, and public awareness, to develop a myositis-free world; and,

WHEREAS, to participate in this observance, Michiganders may deepen their understanding of the various forms and symptoms of myositis, and support the families in our community who will greatly benefit from increased awareness of these rare diseases;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2025 as Myositis Awareness Month in Michigan.