Governor Proclaims Heterotaxy Syndrome Awareness Day 2023

WHEREAS, heterotaxy syndrome is a congenital condition in which the internal organs are abnormally arranged in the chest and abdomen; individuals with this condition suffer from complex birth defects affecting the heart, lungs, liver, and other organs; and

WHEREAS, the severity of heterotaxy syndrome is dependent on the specific abnormalities involved, and can range from mild health problems to life-threatening complications in infancy or childhood; and

WHEREAS, the rareness of this condition can make diagnosis and treatment complicated, often requiring families of affected individuals to initiate communication between medical specialists and experts from different fields; and

WHEREAS, due to a lack of research and data, it can be hard to track the mortality of this condition, and community awareness is relatively low; and

WHEREAS, Heterotaxy Syndrome Awareness Day provides an opportunity for families whose lives have been affected to celebrate life and to remember loved ones lost, to honor dedicated health professionals, and to raise public awareness and funding for treatment of this rare condition;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 4, 2023, as “HETEROTAXY SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.