February 28, 2026: Rare Disease Day

WHEREAS, a rare disease is any disease, disorder or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States; and,

WHEREAS, there are more than 10,000 rare diseases, and while each may only affect a small number of people, they collectively impact an estimated 30 million Americans; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan residents are among those affected by rare diseases, as nearly one in 10 Americans live with a rare disease; and,

WHEREAS, many rare diseases are chronic, progressive, and debilitating, significantly impacting the lives of those who live with them; and,

WHEREAS, individuals and families affected by rare diseases often experience problems such as delays in obtaining an accurate diagnosis, difficulty finding a health care provider with expertise in their condition, and a lack of access to treatments or ancillary services; and,

WHEREAS, while more than 880 drugs and biologics have been approved for the treatment of rare diseases according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 95% of rare diseases do not have an FDA-approved treatment; and,

WHEREAS, the rare disease community is often underrepresented in funding, research, clinical trials, and advocacy efforts, with much of the responsibility for raising public awareness and support falling on those directly affected; and, 

WHEREAS, in accordance with the National Organization for Rare Disorders, thousands of patients, caregivers, medical professionals, researchers, pharmaceutical companies, and others in Michigan will participate in this observance; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim February 28, 2026, as Rare Disease Day in Michigan.