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 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, 2024, as “NEUROMYELITIS OPTICA SPECTRUM DISORDER AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.