Rett Syndrome Awareness Month
Rett Syndrome Awareness Month
October 2020
WHEREAS, Rett Syndrome is a rare neurological condition that is rarely seen in males but is seen almost exclusively in females and is believed to occur in 1:10,000 female births. Parents believe they have a healthy child and the symptoms do not appear until a regression between six to eighteen months of age;
AND WHEREAS, throughout their lives these courageous children will need total care and constant support from their family; they will combat many medical challenges. They may have seizures, osteoporosis, scoliosis, breath holding, hyperventilation, nutritional problems and so much more. Apraxia, which is the inability to motor plan, is one of the most challenging aspects of Rett Syndrome along with loss of speech;
AND WHEREAS, in 1999 it was discovered that Rett Syndrome is primarily caused by a sporadic mutation in the MECP2 gene on the X chromosome, and since this discovery there are many research projects taking place across Ontario and Canada;
AND WHEREAS, as there is no Canadian Rett Syndrome Association, the Ontario Rett Syndrome Association (O.R.S.A) has members from many provinces across Canada and through donations and fundraising efforts. O.R.S.A finances the Canadian Rett Syndrome Registry, has funded over $500,000 in Canadian Rett syndrome research projects, and financially supports the 3 Rett Clinics in Ontario, with one in Ottawa, Toronto and London. The Rett Syndrome clinics provide direct critical support to the families and their child on care and management issues.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Corporation of the Town of Pelham does hereby proclaim October 2020 as Rett Syndrome Awareness Month.
DATED AT the Town of Pelham this 27th day of April, 2020.
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Mayor Marvin Junkin
Town of Pelham