TITLE
Title
PROCLAIM NOVEMBER 2019 EPILEPSY AWARENESS MONTH IN GUILFORD COUNTY
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SPONSOR
Sponsor
Commissioner Kay Cashion
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PROCLAMATION
Proclamation
WHEREAS, epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder, where abnormal electrical activity in the brain can result in involuntary changes in body movement, function, sensation awareness and behavior; and
WHEREAS, nationwide, an estimated 3.4 million people have epilepsy, which includes approximately 470,000 children; and
WHEREAS, 1 in 26 individuals in the United States will develop epilepsy, or recurring seizures, in their lifetime; and
WHEREAS, epilepsy can be caused by a variety of factors, including: head trauma, infection, inherited conditions or problems during fetal development; and
WHEREAS, adults and children with epilepsy, or other seizure disorders, experience health and social disparities, and report poor mental health and cognitive impairment; and
WHEREAS, nationally, epilepsy accounts for $15.5 billion in direct and indirect costs each year for those whose seizures can be controlled with drug therapies, surgery or other forms of treatment, including: dietary approaches, assistive technology and electrical devices; however, these costs do not reflect the needs of those with intractable epilepsy, which is medication-resistant and extremely difficulty to treat.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Guilford County Board of Commissioners proclaims November 2019 as EPILEPSY AWARENESS MONTH IN GUILFORD COUNTY and supports a greater investment in epilepsy research, early diagnosis and increased awareness of the disorder to prevent SUDEP (Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy).
FURTHERMORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Guilford County Board of Commissioners encourages citizens to learn more about this disorder through education, and eliminate the social stigma surrounding epilepsy through compassion, acts of kindness and support to improve the quality of life for individuals, and their families, in our communities who are living with epilepsy.
ADOPTED this the 21st day of November 2019.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Requested Action
Adopt proclamation declaring November 2019 Epilepsy Awareness Month in Guilford County.
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