82R20351 JH-D
By: Craddick H.C.R. No. 137
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological
movement disorder of the central nervous system that has an immense
impact on the lives of numerous individuals all around the world;
and
WHEREAS, Symptoms of Parkinson's include tremors, difficulty
with balance and speaking, slowness, rigidity of the limbs and
trunk, and cognitive and memory problems; more than one million
Americans have been diagnosed with the disease, and it is the second
most common neurodegenerative condition in the United States; and
WHEREAS, The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is unknown,
and though new medicines and therapies may enhance life for
sufferers for a period of time, there is presently no cure; and
WHEREAS, Increased education and research are needed to find
more effective treatments with fewer side effects and also to reach
the ultimate goal of ending this debilitating disease; and
WHEREAS, Providing assistance to individuals and families as
they cope with the disorder is another priority; a
multidisciplinary approach that includes local wellness, support,
and caregiver groups in addition to medical treatment can play an
essential role in improving the quality of life for Parkinson's
sufferers; and
WHEREAS, All of these initiatives are being advanced thanks
to the dedicated staff and supporters of several organizations and
agencies, including the Parkinson's Action Network, the Parkinson's
Disease Foundation, the National Parkinson Foundation, the
American Parkinson Disease Association, and the National
Institutes of Health; and
WHEREAS, While these groups have realized notable progress,
more work remains to be done; in order to bring greater attention to
this urgent health issue, April is being recognized as Parkinson's
Awareness Month all around the world; and
WHEREAS, The lives of many Texans have been adversely
affected by Parkinson's disease, and it is indeed appropriate that
this observance be commemorated in our state in order to continue
the battle against this devastating disorder; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 82nd Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate April 2011 as Parkinson's Awareness Month.