Governor Proclaims Osteogenesis Imperfecta Awareness Week 2021

WHEREAS, Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), also known as “brittle bone disease,” is a genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones that break easily; a person is born with this disorder and is affected throughout his or her lifetime; and

WHEREAS, there are different types of OI with a range of severity from mild to life-threatening; and

WHEREAS, because there is no cure for OI, treatment focuses on minimizing fractures, surgical correction of deformity, reducing bone fragility, maximizing mobility, and independent function; and

WHEREAS, increased funding for education and research is needed to help find more effective treatments; and

WHEREAS, the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation has designated May 1-8, 2021, as National OI Awareness Week; board members, staff, medical professionals, and volunteers are joining together to focus attention on OI in an effort to increase awareness; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina recognizes the organizations and individuals in our state working to raise awareness of this rare disorder, and encourages people to support those with OI and their families in our communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 1 – 8, 2021, as “OSTEOGENESIS IMPERFECTA AWARENESS WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.