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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
ACKNOWLEDGING MAY AS AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS (ALS) AWARENESS MONTH IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in loss of muscle control; and
WHEREAS, ALS often begins with muscle weakness or stiffness and progresses to difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing, ultimately leading to paralysis; and
WHEREAS, ALS impacts individuals, families, caregivers, and communities, often requiring continuous care in later stages; and
WHEREAS, ALS affects individuals across all racial, ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic groups and can impact adults of any age; and
WHEREAS, the cause of ALS is unknown in approximately 90 percent of cases, while about 10 percent are inherited and linked to genetic factors; and
WHEREAS, individuals diagnosed with ALS typically survive two to five years from diagnosis, and most die from respiratory failure; and
WHEREAS, the period between onset of symptoms and diagnosis often exceeds one year, underscoring the need for increased awareness and earlier detection; and
WHEREAS, tens of thousands of individuals in the United States are living with ALS, with more than 5,000 new cases diagnosed each year, or approximately 15 cases per day; and
WHEREAS, on average, every 90 minutes an individual is diagnosed with ALS and another dies from the disease; and
WHEREAS, individuals who have served in the military are approximately twice as likely to develop ALS compared to those who have not served; and
WHEREAS, ALS has no known cure, and access to therapies, clinical trials, medical equipment, and communication technologies is essential to improving quality of life; and
WHEREAS, ALS Association provides care services, equipment, advocacy, and research support for individuals living with ALS and their families; and
WHEREAS, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Awareness Month raises public awareness, honors individuals and families affected by ALS, recognizes caregivers and healthcare providers, and supports continued research; and
WHEREAS, this Body recognizes the resilience of individuals living with ALS and the dedication of their families, caregivers, advocates, and medical professionals; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Cook County Board of Commissioners hereby acknowledge May 2026 as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Awareness Month in Cook County and encourage residents to increase awareness and understanding of ALS; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented as a symbol of respect and recognition for individuals living with ALS, their families, caregivers, and organizations working to combat this disease.
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