EPILEPSY AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures; and
WHEREAS, epilepsy is a common neurological disorder of children and teens; and
WHEREAS, about 200,000 new causes of seizures and epilepsy are diagnosed each year; and
WHEREAS, a recent statewide survey conducted by the Wyoming Epilepsy Association found that 49 percent of adolescents either think epilepsy is contagious or have no knowledge of the condition at all; and
WHEREAS, over two-thirds of teens, say they would not know what to do if a friend had a seizure; and
WHEREAS, lack of knowledge about epilepsy leads to isolation, teasing and even bullying of children with epilepsy; and
WHEREAS, quality of life for children and teens with epilepsy can be improved with greater understanding and acceptance of children and teens with epilepsy among their peers; and
WHEREAS, the Wyoming Epilepsy Association is conducting a statewide program to educate children, teens and families about epilepsy and a variety of programs will be conducted to improve the lives of adolescents in our state;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DAVE FREUDENTHAL, Governor, do hereby proclaim November, 2009, as
EPILEPSY AWARENESS MONTH
in Wyoming and urge health care professionals, school officials, state officials, youth organizations, and community groups to unite in our state's commitment to fighting epilepsy.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Wyoming to be affixed this 7th day of November, 2009.