SR0983 98TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

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SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Epilepsy is a neurological disorder producing brief disturbances in the normal electrical functions of the brain that temporarily affects a person's consciousness, bodily movements, or sensations, while creating long-term effects on the lifestyle of individuals with epilepsy; and

WHEREAS, One in 26 people will develop epilepsy and one in 10 people will have an epileptic seizure during his or her lifetime; and

WHEREAS, Epilepsy can affect anyone regardless of their gender, race, age, religion, educational background, or socioeconomic status; and

WHEREAS, More people suffer from epilepsy than from Parkinson's Disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and cerebral palsy combined; and

WHEREAS, Epilepsy affects more than 65 million people worldwide; and

WHEREAS, Although there is no known cure for epilepsy, existing drug therapy, surgery, and other nonpharmacological treatments enable approximately 80% of individuals with epilepsy to lead normal lives with no seizures or a significant reduction in seizures; and

WHEREAS, Epilepsy is a complex disorder that requires further research to find a cure and prevention; and

WHEREAS, The public is often unable to recognize common seizure types or to respond with appropriate first aid; and

WHEREAS, The annual observance of Purple Day on March 26 advocates for the rights, humane treatment, and appropriate education of all persons with epilepsy, while raising awareness with families, professionals, and the general public to better understand this lifelong disorder; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-EIGHTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we designate March 26, 2014 as "Purple Day" and invite all citizens to participate by wearing purple; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we call upon all citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, and schools to recommit our community to increasing awareness and understanding of epilepsy through education while ensuring that all individuals with epilepsy lead a full and productive life; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Kurt W. Florian, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago, as an expression of our support for the purposes and goals of "Purple Day".