HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - PROCLAMATION - 09/01/2009 - PROCLAMATION DECLARING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER AS C City of
Fort Collins
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS,Chiari Malformation(CM),is a serious neurological disorder where the bottom part
of the brain(the cerebellum)descends out of the skull and crowds the spinal cord,putting pressure on both
the brain and spine, causing many symptoms; and
WHEREAS, CM affects more than 300,000 people in the US; 30%of children born with spina
bifida are also born with a Chiari Malformation; and
WHEREAS, Chiari Malformation can be caused by structural defects in the brain and spinal'cord
that occur during fetal,development, whether caused by genetic mutations or lack of proper vitamins or
nutrients in the maternal diet. This is called primary or congenital CM; and
WHEREAS,it can also be caused later in life if spinal fluid is drained excessively from the lumbar
or thoracic areas of the spine either due to injury, exposure to harmful substances, or infection. This is
called acquired or secondary CM. Primary CM is much more common than secondary CM; and
WHEREAS, symptoms of Chiari Malformation usually appear during adolescence or early
adulthood and can include severe head and neck pain,vertigo,muscle weakness,balance problems,blurred
or double vision, difficulty swallowing and sleep apnea; and
WHEREAS, research has shown that surgery can improve symptoms for about 80%of patients,
but fails about 20%of the time. Chiari Malformation can place a tremendous physical,mental,emotional
and economic strain on patients and their families.
NOW,THEREFORE,I,Doug Hutchinson,Mayor ofthe City of Fort Collins,do hereby proclaim
the month of September as
CHIARI MALFORMATION AWARENESS MONTH
and urge all citizens to become aware of this devastating disease and to participate in support for research
to find a cure.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of the City of Fort Collins
this 1st day of September, A.D. 2009.
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk