September 25, 2026
WHEREAS, ataxia is a clinical manifestation indicating degeneration or dysfunction of the brain that negatively affects the coordination, precision, and accurate timing of physical movements; and,
WHEREAS, ataxia can strike individuals of all ages, including children; and,
WHEREAS, the term “ataxia” is used to classify a group of rare, inherited neurodegenerative diseases including ataxia telangiectasia, episodic ataxia, Friedreich’s ataxia, and spinocerebellar ataxia; and,
WHEREAS, there are many known types of genetic ataxia, but the genetic basis for ataxia in some patients is still unknown; and,
WHEREAS, all inherited ataxias affect fewer than 200,000 individuals in the United States and, therefore, are recognized as rare diseases under the Orphan Drug Act (Public Law 97–414; 96 Stat. 2049); and,
WHEREAS, some genetic ataxias are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner while others are inherited in an autosomal recessive manner; and,
WHEREAS, ataxia symptoms can also be caused by non-inherited health conditions and other factors, including stroke, tumor, cerebral palsy, head trauma, multiple sclerosis, alcohol misuse, and certain medications; and,
WHEREAS, ataxia can present physical, psychological, and financial challenges for patients and their families; and,
WHEREAS, symptoms and outcomes of ataxia progress at different rates and can include lack of coordination, slurred speech, cardiomyopathy, scoliosis, eye movement abnormalities, difficulty walking, tremors, trouble eating and swallowing, difficulties with fine motor skills, and death; and,
WHEREAS, many patients with ataxia require the use of assistive devices, such as wheelchairs and walkers, to aid in their mobility, and many individuals with ataxia may need physical and occupational therapy; and,
WHEREAS, few treatments and no cures have been approved for ataxia, and clinical research to develop safe and effective treatments for ataxia is ongoing; and,
WHEREAS, raising awareness of ataxia among the general public and healthcare professionals improves diagnosis, expands access to care, supports individuals and families facing these challenges, and accelerates research toward safe, effective treatment options and ultimately a cure;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 25, 2026, as Ataxia Awareness Day in Michigan.
