SR-147, As Adopted by Senate, February 13, 2008

            Senator Gleason offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 147.

            A resolution designating February 2008 as Michigan Craniofacial Awareness Month.

            Whereas, Each year more than 100,000 children in the United States are either born with or develop a craniofacial condition which involves the head and neck. It typically results from abnormal growth patterns in the bones of the face and skull, causing moderate or severe disfigurement; and

            Whereas, Hereditary and congenital conditions such as Down's Syndrome and cleft lip and palate are the leading causes of facial disfigurement. Hundreds of thousands of others suffer facial disfigurement from trauma and diseases, including cancer; and

            Whereas, Many syndromes that affect the facial bones can result in mental retardation and even death if not treated through surgical procedures. However, surgery to expand the underdeveloped facial bones and skull can lead to very normal and even an above-normal intelligence level. The abilities of affected individuals are very often underestimated; and

            Whereas, Advanced medical technology can save people who might otherwise die from accidents or burns, but their faces remain affected. People with craniofacial conditions often experience emotional isolation and rejection and live in seclusion from society; and

            Whereas, Early diagnosis and surgical corrections encompassing a broad spectrum of reconstructive procedures aimed at correcting differences of the cranium and face can minimize potential problems associated with craniofacial conditions and improve appearance, as well as facial function, while easing the emotional stress for the child and family; and

            Whereas, Correcting facial differences improves the self-esteem and confidence in those affected. Increasing public awareness, acceptance, and fostering a respect for the dignity of persons with craniofacial differences gives them hope for a better future and allows them a fuller, happier, and more productive life; and

            Whereas, Mutual support organizations are now forming to help the facially disfigured, their families, and the professionals who care for them. Through media, newsletters, and the Internet, people throughout our state and nation offer shared experiences and resources for recovery. These praiseworthy mutual support groups encourage people to esteem the person behind every face; and

            Whereas, Various foundations and institutions are also addressing their needs by funding programs for research and education regarding craniofacial conditions and funding surgical and nonsurgical treatment for people from our country and around the world; and

            Whereas, Because of the difficulties presented to persons who look "different,'' it is important that the public understand the exceptional challenges confronting people with craniofacial conditions. Personal and community outreach efforts to befriend and assist persons with craniofacial conditions deserve our cooperation, participation, and recognition; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby designate the month of February 2008 as Craniofacial Awareness Month in Michigan to encourage all citizens to become better informed of craniofacial conditions and advances in medical treatment; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Saydee L. Robinson of Montrose, Michigan, as a reflection of our support of her leadership and efforts on behalf of those suffering from craniofacial conditions.