Whereas, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and disabling disease of the central nervous system

in which the progression, severity and specific symptoms cannot be foreseen; and

Whereas, every day someone new is diagnosed with MS, a disease that can erode a person’s abilities, hopes

and halt a career; and

Whereas, last year in Oregon more than $2.1 million were raised to find the cure for MS and

develop effective treatments for the disease, as well as provide a wide range of client programs to improve the lives of the individuals living with MS in our state; and

Whereas, this investment is paying off in significant advances in treating MS, such as new

medications which may reduce or delay future disability for people with MS; and

Whereas, many of the chapter’s fund raising efforts return to Oregon from our national organization in the

form of research grants in which OHSU was recently awarded three; and

Whereas, research advances have brought us closer to finding the cure, much remains to be

done, and services must continue to be provided to those who live with the disease; and

Whereas, there are public and private agencies available to serve the constantly changing needs

of those with MS and their families living in Oregon by extending essential services to all who need them;

Now, Therefore, I, Tom Potter, Mayor of the City of Portland, do hereby proclaim March 10-

15, 2008, as

Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week

in Portland, and commend this observance to all our citizens.