Indiana-2013-HR0015-Introduced

Introduced Version

HOUSE

RESOLUTION No. ___

Introduced by: Goodin

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A HOUSE RESOLUTION urging the Governor to declare November as Epilepsy Awareness Month.

Whereas, Epilepsy, a medical condition that produces seizures affecting a variety of mental and physical functions, affects 2.2 million Americans;

Whereas, Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the United States after migraine, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease;

Whereas, Medications and other treatments can help many people of all ages who live with epilepsy, but more than a million people continue to have seizures that can severely limit their activities;

Whereas, Epilepsy most often strikes the very young and the very old, affecting more than 300,000 children under the age of 15 in the United States;

Whereas, As the baby boomer generation ages, the number of people 65 years of age and older affected by epilepsy has grown dramatically, with more than 570,000 adults having the condition;

Whereas, A significant number of people with epilepsy may lack access to medical care for the treatment of the disease;

Whereas, A survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention demonstrated that the hardships imposed by epilepsy are comparable to those imposed by cancer, diabetes, and arthritis;

Whereas, The social stigma surrounding epilepsy continues to fuel discrimination and isolate people who suffer from seizure disorders from mainstream life;

Whereas, In spite of these formidable obstacles, people with epilepsy can live healthy and productive lives and make significant contributions to society; and

Whereas, The designation of November as Epilepsy Awareness Month could help focus attention on and increase understanding of epilepsy and those people who suffer from it: Therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the

General Assembly of the State of Indiana:

    SECTION 1. That the Indiana House of Representatives urges the Governor to declare November as Epilepsy Awareness Month.
    SECTION 2. That the Indiana House of Representatives calls upon all Hoosiers to observe Epilepsy Awareness Month with appropriate programs and support for the goals and ideals represented by Epilepsy Awareness Month.
    SECTION 3. That the Principal Clerk of the House of Representatives transmit a copy of this resolution to Governor Pence.