RETT Syndrome Awareness Month (October 2022)

Whereas Rett Syndrome is a rare neurodevelopment condition that affects mainly females (1 in 10,000 births) and is caused by a mutation in the X chromosome; and

Whereas individuals with Rett Syndrome will lose some if not most acquired skills including speech, and gross and fine motor skills. Some never develop the ability to walk or even talk; and
Whereas there is currently no cure but advancements in treatments and research provide thousands of people with hope; and

Whereas the Ontario Rett Syndrome Associations (OSRA) is a volunteer, nonprofit charity for parents, caregivers, researchers, medical professionals and other interested support agencies and individuals; and

Whereas the OSRA exists to ensure that children and adults with Rett Syndrome are enabled to achieve their full potential and enjoy the highest quality of life within their community; and

Whereas this observance gives us a means to focus attention in making it possible for ORSA. to continue public awareness and advocacy, provide parent/family support, operate the Resource Centre, fund research projects through the Hope Fund, host conferences, maintain the Canadian Rett Syndrome Registry, and fund three Rett syndrome clinics in Ontario that provide medical assistance. The Rett syndrome clinics located at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto and Thames Valley Children's Centre, London, provide direct critical support to the families and their loved one on care and management issues.

Now Therefore, I, Walter Stack, Mayor of the Town of Arnprior, Do Hereby Proclaim October 2022 as Rett Syndrome Awareness Month in the Town of Arnprior. I urge all citizens to make an effort this month to learn more about Rett Syndrome, fight stigma, light Canada purple and wear a purple ribbon to show support.

Walter Stack, Mayor
Town of Arnprior