Assembly Resolution No. 951

BY: M. of A. Weprin

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
March 15, 2024, as Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness
Day in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness of serious
illnesses that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 15, 2024, as Stiff
Person Syndrome Awareness Day in the State of New York, in conjunction
with the observance of International Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness
Day; and

WHEREAS, Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a disorder that causes
stiffness when the muscles in the body contract and spasm involuntarily;
individuals affected by this disorder cannot control or predict the
movement of their bodies; and

WHEREAS, Stiff Person Syndrome is characterized by these persistent
or intermittent muscle contractions or spasms, causing abnormal, often
repetitive, movements, postures, or both; the movements are usually
patterned and twisting and may resemble a tremor; and

WHEREAS, These spasms can occur in episodes, particularly when a
person with SPS is surprised or startled, moves suddenly, or experiences
cold temperatures or emotional stress; in some individuals, the spasms
are induced by certain exercises or touch; and

WHEREAS, Symptoms may affect a specific part of the body or many
parts simultaneously; at times, these manifestations may be painful; and

WHEREAS, The cause of Stiff Person Syndrome is unknown; researchers
believe it results from antibodies blocking the glutamic acid
decarboxylase (GAD) enzyme which aids in manufacturing the
gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter; GABA reduces or blocks
certain nerve signals, and without the proper amount, the nervous system
becomes hyperexcitable; and

WHEREAS, In North America, Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare
neurological disorder, affecting approximately one to two individuals
per one million; this disorder does not discriminate, affecting men,
women, and children of all ages and backgrounds; and

WHEREAS, There is no cure for Stiff Person Syndrome; working with a
specialist and maintaining symptom control with therapies and
medications can make it easier to live with the condition; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness of
this serious health issue, and more must be done to increase research at
the local, state, and national levels; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 15, 2024, as Stiff
Person Syndrome Awareness Day in the State of New York; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.