Governor Proclaims Neuromyelitis Optica Awareness Month 2023

WHEREAS, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune disease in which the immune system reacts against its own cells in the central nervous system, primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord; and

WHEREAS, NMOSD, which attacks the central nervous system, can also cause lifetime disability, including blindness and/or paralysis; and

WHEREAS, the cause of NMOSD is still a mystery, and there are a few approved treatments for the majority of patients with NMOSD; and

WHEREAS, when NMOSD is misdiagnosed, treatments may exacerbate NMOSD symptoms; and

WHEREAS, increasing awareness about NMOSD has led to a rise in diagnoses, as doctors have become more likely to recognize the disease's symptoms; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages people and organizations across our state to raise awareness about NMOSD to improve patient care and promote research for finding a cure;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim March, 2023, as “NEUROMYELITIS OPTICA AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.