LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim June 2014 as Scoliosis Awareness Month in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official
months set aside to increase awareness of serious issues which affect
the lives of citizens of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to memori-
alize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2014 as Scoliosis Aware-
ness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance
of National Scoliosis Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine which affects
two to three percent of the population, or seven million people in the
United States; most people are diagnosed between the ages of 10 and 15,
although people of any age can be afflicted with this disorder; and
WHEREAS, Severe Scoliosis can have a dramatic impact on a person's
quality of life, as it puts pressure on the heart, diminishes lung
capacity, and limits physical activity; and
WHEREAS, Effective treatment is available once detected by a medical
professional; children who have mild Scoliosis are monitored closely,
and in many cases, no treatment is necessary; in other cases, patients
are required to wear a brace or may need surgery to keep their condition
from worsening; and
WHEREAS, Established in 2008, Scoliosis Awareness Month in the State
of New York unites scoliosis patients, families, physicians, clinicians
and others to create a positive public awareness, education and advocacy
campaign about this affliction; and
WHEREAS, By working together, the Scoliosis community can provide
accurate information and proper perspectives through news media and
community awareness events; furthermore, children and parents can be
given a better understanding of the signs and symptoms, as well as where
to get treatment; and
WHEREAS, Scoliosis Awareness Month helps encourage the sharing of
personal stories and works to connect patients so that no family
affected by Scoliosis needs to go through the experience alone; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2014 as Scoliosis
Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.