WHEREAS, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is an uncommon neurodegenerative disease affecting nerve cells that control mobility, balance, walking, speech, swallowing, vision, behavior, cognitive abilities, and quality of life; and
WHEREAS, approximately 20,000 Americans have PSP, with symptoms usually beginning after age 60; and
WHEREAS, PSP was first described as a distinct disorder in 1964 when scientists first published a paper distinguishing it from Parkinson’s disease; and
WHEREAS, there is no known treatment, cure, or cause of PSP, but some symptoms may be managed with medication or other interventions; and
WHEREAS, new discoveries are being made daily for PSP in the scientific community, specifically though the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a component of the National Institutes of Health; and
WHEREAS, further research on PSP is critical, as people affected with PSP can become severely disabled within three to five years of onset; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina is joining the nation in raising awareness of PSP and its impact on families with loved ones who suffer from the disease;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October, 2023, as “PSP AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.