Reps. Kesto, Allor, Cochran, Crawford, Ellison, Geiss, Greig, Kelly, Liberati, Maturen, Rendon, Sneller, Whiteford and Wittenberg offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 306.

A resolution to declare April 18, 2018, as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Day in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, Parkinson’s disease is a chronic neurological disorder which results from the loss of nerve cells in a specific region of the brain, affecting over 35,000 people in the state of Michigan; and

            Whereas, Diverse symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include resting tremor, slowness of movement, rigidity, loss of balance, small handwriting, decreased volume and clarity of voice as well as a host of secondary problems such as impassive facial expression, swallowing issues, or memory issues which impact quality of life; and

            Whereas, Psychological, emotional, and physical tolls burden people with Parkinson’s disease as well as their families and friends; and

            Whereas, Parkinson’s disease is typically diagnosed between the ages of 50 and 60. However, between 5% and 10% are diagnosed before the age of 40 which adds additional challenges of working full time, raising young children while still managing the effects of the disease; and

            Whereas, An active lifestyle with regular daily exercise and careful attention to Parkinson medications are key elements to living life fully with Parkinson’s disease and overcoming the disabilities associated with it; and

            Whereas, The Michigan Parkinson Foundation has been the primary organization in the state of Michigan for over 35 years and provides services that make a significant difference in the quality of life for those affected by Parkinson’s disease through education, support groups, medication assistance, respite care assistance, information and referrals, legal assistance, as well as programs for health care professionals to help improve patient care; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare April 18, 2018, as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Day in the state of Michigan; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be sent to the Michigan Parkinson Foundation as evidence of our highest esteem.