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A resolution recognizing May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
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WHEREAS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“ALS”), often known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive and terminal disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, making the simplest movements - including walking, speaking, and gesturing - nearly impossible; and
WHEREAS, the life expectancy for an individual with ALS is between two and five years once the individual receives an ALS diagnosis; and
WHEREAS, approximately 30,000 individuals in the United States are afflicted with ALS at any given time, with 5,000 new cases appearing each year; and
WHEREAS, in the United States, every 90 minutes someone dies from ALS, and every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS; and
WHEREAS, ALS strikes people regardless of race, sex, age, or ethnicity; and
WHEREAS, finding the causes of, and cure for, ALS will prevent the disease from robbing hundreds of Americans of their dignity and lives; and
WHEREAS, aggressive treatments of the symptoms of ALS can extend the lives of those living with the disease; and
WHEREAS, the family members and friends of individuals living with ALS provide support, love, day-to-day care, and so much more to their loved ones with ALS; and
WHEREAS, people with ALS, their caregivers, and healthcare providers work every day to manage this disease and work towards a cure; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County recognize ALS Awareness Month and commit to supporting the people impacted by ALS.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby recognizes May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month in recognition of the importance of educating the public about ALS, honoring individuals and families living with ALS, and recognizing the efforts of caregivers and healthcare providers supporting individuals living with ALS.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.