[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 58 (Tuesday, April 27, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E778]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           GUILLIAN-BARRE SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY, MAY 1, 1999

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                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 27, 1999

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share information about 
Guillian-Barre Syndrome Day on Saturday, May 1, 1999.
  ``GBS Awareness Day'' is an effort to help educate the public and to 
focus attention on Guillian-Barre Syndrome. GBS is an inflammatory 
disorder of the peripheral nerves. It is characterized by the rapid 
onset of weakness and often, paralysis of the legs, arms, breathing 
muscles, and face. Although most people recover, this can take months, 
and some have long-term disabilities. It is important to note that GBS 
can develop in any person at any age, regardless of gender or ethnic 
background.
  Although a great number of cases developed from the 1976 swine flu 
vaccine, almost 50 percent occur shortly after a viral infection such 
as a sore throat or diarrhea. This should bring home how susceptible we 
all are to this baffling disorder which is unpredictable and as of yet, 
it's cause is unknown.
  In 1980, in response to the growing number of cases, Robert and 
Estelle Benson founded the Guillian-Barre Syndrome Foundation 
International. The foundation has developed 130 chapters to help serve 
the needs of patients, families, and friends while at the same time 
raise money to fund medical research. The foundation is proud to have 
on it's medical advisory board some of the world's leading experts on 
GBS, as well as physicians who themselves have the disorder.
  One of GBS Foundation cofounders, Mr. Ralph Neas, has played a vital 
role in bringing awareness to the community through his work at the 
local Montgomery County Chapter. It is the mission of those who have 
been affected by this sometimes devastating disease to assure that 
everyone is aware of the established support system and to better 
educate the community on the facts and symptoms of Guillian-Barre 
Syndrome.
  I congratulate the foundation on their efforts and wish them great 
success in their mission.

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