March 23, 2026
WHEREAS, Primary Periodic Paralysis (PPP) is a rare genetic condition impacting 3,000 to 4,000 Americans, characterized by repeated episodes of extreme muscle weakness or temporary paralysis.
WHEREAS, March 23rd is chosen to honor the neurologist who first extensively described PPP, Karl Friedrich Otto Westphal.
WHEREAS, World Periodic Paralysis Day seeks to reduce delays in diagnosis, increase public and medical knowledge about Primary Periodic Paralysis, and foster a supportive global community by providing access to education materials and resources for health care professionals and people living with PPP, as well as through an inaugural global awareness campaign to educate people on this awareness day.
WHEREAS, World Periodic Paralysis Day will shine a spotlight on the challenges of living with Primary Periodic Paralysis and the urgent need for improved diagnosis, treatment, and care.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 23, 2026, as World Periodic Paralysis Awareness Day in Michigan.
