WHEREAS, Muscular Dystrophy is a group of hereditary genetic disorders characterized by the weakening and wasting of muscle structures that vary in inheritance pattern, age of onset, initial areas of affliction, and progression; and
WHEREAS, Muscular Dystrophy is not a singular disease or disorder with consistent manifestation, but rather an umbrella term that covers more than 50 different strains that range in severity from mild muscle weakness to complete paralysis of voluntary muscles, including those used for breathing and/or swallowing; and
WHEREAS, hundreds of Alaska families are affected by muscular dystrophy, which strikes regardless of race, sex, economic status, age, or ethnicity; and
WHEREAS, research continues to yield new medications for four diseases under this umbrella: Duchenne, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Myasthenia Gravis, and Lou Gehrig’s/ALS; and
WHEREAS, raising public awareness facilitates increased research opportunities and the possible discovery of treatments and cures, as well as bringing in increased funding for support and services for those families affected by muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular diseases; and
WHEREAS, Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month is a special opportunity to educate the public about muscular and neuromuscular diseases and issues faced by the Muscular Dystrophy community.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim August 2021 as:
Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to seek educational opportunities about Muscular Dystrophy and to provide support for those whose lives are affected by it.
