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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 12, 2020 10:03 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Thomas P. Murt |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Designate June 2020 as "Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month" |
| I plan to re-introduce a resolution designating June 2020 as “Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetically inherited disease that impacts the part of the nervous system that controls voluntary muscle movement. SMA is the leading genetic cause of death for infants and toddlers. Among autosomal recessive disorders, SMA is the most common fatal disease and is second in birth prevalence only to cystic fibrosis. Each year in the United States, one in every 6,000 to 10,000 people develop SMA, and 1 in every 50 Americans is a genetic carrier of the disease. This rare disorder can interfere with basic life functions such as breathing and swallowing. Currently, there is no known cure for this disease. During the month of June, I encourage everyone to join together to remember those that have lost their lives, and those who are living with this disease. It is my hope that we can raise awareness about this devastating illness has on those affected as well as on their families. Please consider co-sponsoring this resolution designating June 2020 as “Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month.” |
Introduced as HR934