WHEREAS, Multiple Sclerosis currently afflicts more than 400,000 Americans and more than 2.5 million people worldwide; and

WHEREAS, Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, and Multiple Sclerosis is two times as common in women as in men; and

WHEREAS, Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that can cause blurred vision, loss of balance, poor coordination, slurred speech, tremors, numbness, extreme fatigue, problems with memory and concentration, paralysis, blindness, and more; and

WHEREAS, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, through individual gifts, legacies and bequests, special events, and corporate contributions, is dedicated to finding a cure for this disease through research efforts and support for those that suffer from it; and

WHEREAS, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society maintains an office in Warwick to offer vital support and programs to those living with multiple sclerosis and their family members; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations hereby voices its commitment to the eradication of this disease and supports the treatment of its citizens that suffer from it; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Senate hereby encourages private efforts to enhance research funding and education programs that address this disease; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Senate hereby joins with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in recognizing the week of March 3-9, 2014, as National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week to enhance the understanding of multiple sclerosis, and to encourage participation in voluntary activities to support the local programs and services offered by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Rhode Island Chapter, and the funding of research programs to find a cure for this disease; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the Warwick office of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.