Chiari Awareness Month
By the Governor of the State of Alabama
A Proclamation
July 01, 2009

WHEREAS, Chiari malformations (CMs) are defects in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance, and creates pressure on the cerebellum and brainstem which may block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid to and from the brain; and

WHEREAS, The condition was first identified by German pathologist, Professor Hans Chiari, in the 1890’s who categorized the CMs in order of severity: types I, II, III, and IV; and

WHEREAS, The cause of Chiari I malformations are unknown but scientists believe it is either a congenital condition caused by exposure to harmful substances during fetal development or that it could be a genetic condition as it may appear in more than one member of a family; and

WHEREAS, Symptoms usually appear during adolescence or early adulthood and can include severe head and neck pain, vertigo, muscle weakness, balance problems, blurred or double vision, difficulty swallowing and sleep apnea; and

WHEREAS, The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke of the National Institutes of Health is conducting research to find alternative surgical options and identify the cause of the CMs to create improved treatment and prevention plans:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Bob Riley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim September 2009, as

Chiari Awareness Month

in the State of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 1st day of July 2009.

Governor Bob Riley

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