04-R 301

2004 -- H 8596

Enacted 06/02/04

H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING MAY 15, 2004 THROUGH JUNE 15, 2004 AS "TOURETTE SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH"

Introduced By: Representatives Naughton, E Coderre, San Bento, Carter, and Picard

Date Introduced: June 02, 2004

     WHEREAS, Good health is a key component of a long, productive and fulfilling life.

Supporting observances that raise awareness about serious neurological disorders, such as

Tourette Syndrome (TS), offer individuals with Tourette and their families an opportunity to

educate the public about this disorder, and to advocate for the needs of children and families who

live with Tourette Syndrome; and

     WHEREAS, Tourette Syndrome is an inherited neurological disorder, characterized by

involuntary and sudden movements and repeated vocal sounds, called "tics." TS can strike

people of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, with males affected three to four more times than

females; and

     WHEREAS, Approximately 200,000 people in the United States have been diagnosed

with TS, and due to a lack of information and understanding about the disorder, many thousands

more remain undiagnosed. This lack of public awareness has also increased the social stigma

attached to TS; and

     WHEREAS, Tourette Syndrome typically begins in childhood, with symptoms generally

appearing before the age of 10, and sometimes requires lifelong treatment. Early diagnosis and

treatment of TS can prevent physical and psychological harm; and

     WHEREAS, The is no known cure for Tourette Syndrome and treatment involves

multiple medications and therapies, with costs that can be prohibitive; and

     WHEREAS, It is important to create awareness, understanding and support for

individuals and families affected by TS; it is likewise fitting to recognize individuals and

organizations that are committed to providing education and awareness about TS among the

healthcare community, educational institutions and the general public; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and

Providence Plantations hereby proclaims May 15, 2004 through June 15, 2004 as "Tourette

Syndrome Awareness Month"; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives acknowledges the volunteer

contributions of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Rhode Island's Board of Directors, who

give freely of their time and expertise to advance the well being of individuals and families with

TS through education, awareness and advocacy initiatives; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives applauds the volunteer contributions of

the youth mentors who have given freely of their time to make a positive impact on the lives of

youth support group members with TS. With their commitment, these peer mentors have become

positive role models for other teens in regards to accepting others with differences and

challenges; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives recognizes and supports the joint efforts

of community leaders such as the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket, who with the Tourette

Syndrome Association of Rhode Island, will join forces to raise youth awareness of TS through

the Play-A-Thon on June 5, 2004 at the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the National Tourette Syndrome Association.

the Tourette Syndrome Association of Rhode Island and the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket,

One Moeller Place, Pawtucket.

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LC03555

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