CITY OF CHARLOTTESVILLE


                        PROCLAMATION
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS EDUCATION AND AWARENESS MONTH
                    MARCH 2023
WHEREAS Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central
nervous system that affects approximately 400,000 people in the United States; it
typically strikes young adults in the prime of life – in their 20s to 40s; and

WHEREAS March is the Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month; it is
important for better education and awareness of multiple sclerosis so that its victims
can lead more productive and satisfying lives; and

WHEREAS MS is a disease that not only affects the person with the condition but
also greatly impacts family, friends, and the community; and

WHEREAS symptoms of MS can range from mild to severe including numbness in
the limbs, muscle spasms, stiffness, weakness, difficulty moving, depression, pain,
paralysis, loss of vision and is one of the most common causes of disability in younger
adults; and

WHEREAS the exact cause of MS is still unknown and there is no known cure;
treatments focus on helping patients manage their symptoms, control flareups and slow
the progression of the disease; and

WHEREAS every hour of every day, someone is newly diagnosed with MS, and it is 2
to 3 times more common in women than men.; and

WHEREAS the Multiple Sclerosis Alliance of Virginia, a 100% volunteer-led
organization provides programs and services for anyone in Virginia whose life has been
affected by MS;

NOW, THEREFORE, the Charlottesville City Council hereby recognizes the
month of March as Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month.

Signed and sealed this 6th day of March 2023.


___________________________
J. Lloyd Snook, III, Mayor


Attest:

___________________________
Kyna Thomas, Clerk of Council