TITLE: Honoring Conquer Chiari for its efforts in behalf of those with Chiari malformation.

SUMMARY: Honoring Conquer Chiari for its efforts in behalf of those with Chiari malformation.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The C&S Patient Education Foundation, also known as Conquer Chiari, is dedicated to improving the experiences and outcomes of those suffering from Chiari malformation through education, awareness, and research; and WHEREAS, Affecting more than 300,000 people in the United States, Chiari malformation is a serious neurological disorder that occurs when the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance, descends out of the skull and crowds the spinal cord; this puts pressure on both the brain and the spine and disrupts the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, causing a wide variety of symptoms, including severe head and neck pain, trouble swallowing, balance problems, sleep apnea, muscle weakness, blurred or double vision, and vertigo; and WHEREAS, It is estimated that Chiari occurs in approximately 1 in 1,000 births nationwide, but some individuals who are born with the condition may not show symptoms until adolescence or adulthood, if at all; many patients undergo brain surgery in an attempt to keep symptoms from progressing, but surgery is not always successful; and WHEREAS, To date, the cause of Chiari malformation is still unknown, and scientists are investigating whether the disease is a congenital or genetic condition; the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, which is part of the National Institutes of Health, is conducting research to better understand the disease and to create improved treatment and prevention plans; and WHEREAS, While doctors and patients work to learn more about Chiari malformation, Conquer Chiari is advocating for increased public awareness of the disease and its consequences; a nonprofit organization, Conquer Chiari aids the medical community and maintains a website offering those affected the most comprehensive source of information available; in addition, the group holds annual fund-raising walks in various locations across the country; this year, 44 states are hosting Conquer Chiari Walk Across America events at 88 sites on September 19, 2015, and six cities in Texas are among them: Amarillo, Beaumont, Burkburnett, Round Rock, San Antonio, and Dallas-Fort Worth; and WHEREAS, Conquer Chiari is helping to educate people about this disorder while providing invaluable support to those facing diagnosis and treatment, and the organization and its admirable goals are indeed worthy of commendation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 84th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby honor Conquer Chiari for its efforts in behalf of those with Chiari malformation and encourage all Texans to learn more about this serious health issue; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Conquer Chiari as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives and Senate. Smithee President of the Senate Speaker of the House I certify that H.C.R. No. 136 was adopted by the House on May 28, 2015, by the following vote: Yeas 144, Nays 0, 2 present, not voting. Chief Clerk of the House I certify that H.C.R. No. 136 was adopted by the Senate on May 29, 2015, by a viva-voce vote. Secretary of the Senate APPROVED: Date Governor