County of Monmouth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 28, 2009  

Freeholders raise awareness for dystonia 

Freeholder Director Barbara J. McMorrow presents the Dystonia Awareness Week proclamation FREEHOLD – The Board of Chosen Freeholders has proclaimed June 1 through June 7, 2009 as “Dystonia Awareness Week” in Monmouth County and joined with members of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation to provide public support to find causes and a cure for this devastating disorder.

“Anyone who has symptoms of dystonia or a relative, friend, or loved one with dystonia understands the implications of living with the disorder on a daily basis,” Freeholder Director Barbara J. McMorrow said. “Some people inherit dystonia or have it because of another disease, and while there are those who can maintain a relatively normal lifestyle, others are permanently hindered, struggling in wheelchairs or with crutches or needing full-time assistance. This proclamation supports increasing the public awareness of this disease and finding a cure.” 

Dystonia is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary spasms and muscle contractions which may affect a part of the body or the entire body. There are approximately 13 forms of dystonia, and approximately 50 diseases and conditions include dystonia as a major symptom.

According to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation Web site, it is estimated that approximately 300,000 people in North America are affected; that is a larger portion of the population than those who suffer from better known conditions such as Muscular Dystrophy or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Information about dystonia can be found at www.dystonia-foundation.org.

In 2007, the national Dystonia Medical Research Foundation awarded the county a “Community Partnership Award” for the Division on Aging, Disabilities & Veterans’ Interment Affairs active role in spreading awareness and educating the public about dystonia.

Pictured: (left to right) Owen Layden, Mary Layden, Joanna Manusov, Janet Nachbar and Len Nachbar of Freehold received a proclamation of Dystonia Awareness Week from Freeholder Director Barbara J. McMorrow at the Board of Chosen Freeholder meeting on May 28, 2009.

#    #    #