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TO PROCLAIM SEPTEMBER 21, 2003, AS MYOSITIS AWARENESS DAY IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, AND TO RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF MYOSITIS AWARENESS AND THE EFFORTS TO HELP PREVENT AND CURE THIS DISEASE.
Whereas, the members of the General Assembly are happy to proclaim September 21, 2003, as the first Myositis Awareness Day over the next five years in order to promote the efforts of the organizations that help raise money in hopes of preventing and curing myositis and also help educate the public about the symptoms and effects the disease has on those afflicted; and
Whereas, myositis is believed to be an autoimmune disease much like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, but since so little is known about myositis, it often goes undiagnosed for weeks or even months, reducing the chances of a positive outcome for new patients; and
Whereas, this disease attacks people of all ages, and The Myositis Association estimates that there are between thirty and fifty thousand cases of myositis in the United States. Juvenile patients typically experience dermatomyositis, with its often itchy and painful skin rash and muscle weakness; and
Whereas, presently, standard treatments are aimed at suppressing the immune system and decreasing muscle inflammation. Treatments vary greatly among patients, with many patients not responding to any treatment. The medicines used to treat myositis often cause uncomfortable and lasting side effects; and
Whereas, the focus for the future of The Myositis Association is on increasing awareness and encouraging research, diagnosis, and a cure; and
Whereas, the members of the General Assembly find the issue of myositis of great concern to the welfare of our State and appreciate and commend the actions taken to cure this disease. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That the members of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina, by this resolution, proclaim September 21, 2003, as Myositis Awareness Day in the State of South Carolina for the next five years and recognize the importance of myositis awareness and the efforts to help prevent and cure this disease.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to The Myositis Association.
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