[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 83 (Tuesday, May 20, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E974]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        DYSTONIA AWARENESS WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON LEWIS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 20, 2008

  Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, I rise today to draw attention 
to Dystonia Awareness Week, designated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky 
for June 1-7, 2008.
  Dystonia is a neurological disorder that creates painful, involuntary 
muscle spasms throughout the body. The public knows little about this 
disorder, afflicting as many as 1 million people in North America 
alone.
  The causes of dystonia are still largely unknown within the medical 
community. The physical manifestations of dystonia can be debilitating 
and the lack of understanding among the general public often creates 
isolation and psychological distress to those who suffer from the 
disorder.
  The Dystonia Association of Kentucky, Inc., was formed by patients, 
families, and friends to help one another and to seek a cure for their 
condition. Widespread public support for their efforts is essential.
  I urge my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me 
in supporting the goals of Dystonia Awareness Week and urge all 
Americans to gain a deeper understanding of this disorder and those who 
are afflicted by it.

                          ____________________