[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 155 (Wednesday, September 27, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1276]
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 27, 2017

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise once again to recognize 
the millions that fight each day against dysautonomia. Dysautonomia is 
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 people of any age, gender, race or background 
across our nation, including many individuals living in Western New 
York.
  As is, dysautonomia can be extremely debilitating and often 
accompanied by the unseen symptom of social isolation. Some forms 
result in death, causing tremendous pain and suffering for those 
impacted and their loved ones. The stress on the families extends as 
well to the financial hardships that deserve recognition and better 
solutions. I am proud to affirm that the outstanding character and 
strong moral fiber of those in the Western New York community who have 
provided the much needed support for the victims suffering from 
dysautonomia. It remains especially crucial for the community to 
recognize, rally around and support those so affected 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 to increase 
research and accessible services will be recognized on Sunday, 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 to help patients get diagnosed and treated 
earlier, save lives, foster support for individuals and families and 
hopefully find a cure for all forms of this condition in the future.
  It is imperative that we also recognize the contributions of the 
professional medical community, patients, family members and advocates 
who are working to educate our citizenly about dysautonomia throughout 
Western New York. They are deserving of our gratitude, recognition, 
respect and greater understanding.
  Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize 
Dysautonomia Awareness Month. 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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