[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 28, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1389]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING DYSAUTONOMIA AWARENESS MONTH

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 28, 2016

  Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the millions that 
fight each day against Dysautonomia, a group of debilitating medical 
conditions that result in a malfunction of the autonomic nervous 
system. This system is responsible for ``automatic'' bodily functions 
such as respiration, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and 
temperature control, things that many of us have the luxury of taking 
for granted. Dysautonomia continues to significantly impact the lives 
of Americans across the United States especially in Western New York.
   As is, dysautonomia can be extremely debilitating but an often 
unseen symptom of this disability is the social isolation that 
accompanies it. The stress on the families of those impacted coupled 
with the financial hardships warrant our recognition as well as 
awareness. I am proud to affirm that the outstanding character and 
strong moral fiber of those in the Western New York community has 
provided the much needed support for the victims suffering from 
dysautonomia. Looking ahead, it will be crucial for the community to 
rally around these victims as they continue their hard fought battle 
against this disease.
   Dysautonomia awareness is monumental in the early detection of the 
disease due to the fact that most patients take years to be properly 
diagnosed. Dysautonomia International, a non-profit organization that 
advocates on behalf of patients living with dysautonomia, encourages 
communities to deepen their understanding and be mindful of this 
challenging condition especially during Dysautonomia Awareness Month 
each October. The tireless efforts of the Dysautonomia community for 
increased research and accessible services will be recognized on 
Saturday, October 1 in my Congressional District as the color turquoise 
will bathe Niagara Falls and the Peace Bridge in the light of care, 
concern and continuing the fight to improve the lives of individuals 
living with this chronic condition.
   Currently, Dysautonomia International is funding research to develop 
more substantial treatments and hopefully find a cure for all forms of 
this condition in the future.
   I wanted to recognize the contributions of the professional medical 
community, patients and family members who are working to educate our 
citizenry about dysautonomia throughout Western New York. They are 
deserving of our support, recognition and respect.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in support for those 
suffering from the devastating medical condition and encourage them to 
spread awareness across our nation throughout and beyond the month of 
October.

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