[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 52 (Tuesday, May 2, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S3251]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL NEUROFIBROMATOSIS MONTH

  Mr. ASHCROFT. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize May as the 
National Neurofibromatosis month. Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic 
disorder that causes tumors to grow along nerves throughout the body. 
These tumors can lead to a number of physical challenges including 
blindness, hearing impairment, or skeletal problems such as scoliosis 
or bone deformities. In addition to these physical challenges, over 60 
percent of those diagnosed with neurofibromatosis are also faced with 
learning disabilities ranging from mild dyslexia and ADD to severe 
retardation.
  Anyone's child or grandchild can have NF. This disease affects one in 
4,000 children, making it more prevalent than cystic fibrosis and 
hereditary muscular dystrophy combined. NF equally affects both sexes 
and all racial and ethnic backgrounds. Although 50 percent of the cases 
are inherited, half are spontaneous with no family history.
  It is an honor to stand before this body and recognize May as 
National Neurofibromatosis month. I would also like to take this 
opportunity to recognize the Missouri Chapter of The National 
Neurofibromatosis Foundation, Inc. and their efforts to provide support 
to those who suffer from NF as they strive towards a cure.

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