WHEREAS, Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that is characterized by medical and cognitive issues, including cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and mild to moderate intellectual disability; and
WHEREAS, Williams Syndrome occurs when a person is missing more than 25 genes from a specific area of chromosome 7; most cases are not inherited, instead affecting people sporadically, regardless of family history; and
WHEREAS, this condition affects as many as 30,000 individuals in the United States; and
WHEREAS, the Williams Syndrome Association (WSA) is a nonprofit organization, founded in 1982, and serves as the most comprehensive resource for people and families living with Williams syndrome, as well as for doctors, researchers, and educators; and
WHEREAS, to generate awareness about Williams Syndrome and raise funding for critical WSA programs and initiatives, the WSA has organized May as “Williams Syndrome Awareness Month” which includes awareness efforts all across the United States; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina recognizes the families and friends of those with Williams Syndrome and commends their compassionate work to educate people across our state and nation about this rare disorder;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May, 2022, as “WILLIAMS SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.