Whereas , there is no treatment or cure for Tay-Sachs disease, which is always fatal in children; and,

Whereas , Tay-Sachs disease often affects families with no prior history, and if both parents are carriers, there is a 25 percent chance that their child will have Tay-Sachs disease; and,

Whereas , approximately 1 in 27 Ashkenazi Jews, 1 in 50 Irish-Americans, and 1 in every 250 people are carriers of the disorder; and;

Whereas , a simple blood test can determine if a person is a Tay-Sachs carrier, and I encourage all Michigan residents, especially those known to be at higher risk, to be screened for the disorder; and,

Whereas , Tay-Sachs disease was first identified in 1881 by British ophthalmologist Warren Tay and in 1887 by American neurologist Bernard Sachs ; and,

Whereas , together, we can work to raise awareness of Tay-Sachs and fight this tragis disorder.

Now, Therefore , I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2008 Tay-Sachs Awareness Month in Michigan.  I encourage all citizens to understand the importance of genetic testing and the need for research and to assist those individuals and families who deal with this devastating disease on a daily basis.