WHEREAS, GM1 gangliosidosis is an inherited neurodegenerative disease that results in the progressive loss of physical and developmental abilities, with early onset forms usually fatal in childhood; and
WHEREAS, GM1 gangliosidosis is also a lysosomal storage disorder that arises due to lysosomal defects, causing errors in metabolism and progressively destroying nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord; and
WHEREAS, in turn, these errors result in the buildup of excess waste in the cells of the impacted organ or system; and
WHEREAS, the genetic lysosomal defect for those with GM1 gangliosidosis results in a deficiency of the enzyme beta-galactosidase, an enzyme needed to break down and recycle a number of biomolecules; and
WHEREAS, GM1 gangliosidosis is an inherited neurodegenerative disease that results in the progressive loss of physical and developmental abilities; and
WHEREAS, increased awareness, advocacy, and research efforts are critical to helping improve the lives of those affected with GM1 gangliosidosis and ultimately finding a cure for this devastating disease;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 23, 2023, as “GM1 GANGLIOSIDOSIS AWARENESS DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.