HR1075 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1075 LRB099 20011 GRL 44414 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, In the United States, rare diseases affect nearly 30 million Americans; more than half of the population affected by rare diseases are children; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois General Assembly recognizes the hardship Illinois families endure when their children are diagnosed with a rare disease or disorder; and

WHEREAS, Bilateral Perisylvian Polymicrogyria is a rare neurological disorder that affects the cerebral cortex, the outer surface of the brain, early in children's lives; and

WHEREAS, Symptoms of Bilateral Perisylvian Polymicrogyria include partial paralysis of muscles on both sides of the face, tongue, jaws, and throat; and

WHEREAS, Those who suffer from Bilateral Perisylvian Polymicrogyria have difficulties in speaking, chewing, and swallowing; in some cases, seizures are experienced and, in most cases, mild to severe intellectual disability is present; and

WHEREAS, The exact cause of Bilateral Perisylvian Polymicrogyria is not fully understood; it is thought to be due to improper brain development during embryonic growth; and

WHEREAS, Dorothy Teresea-Marie "Tess" Drainer is a vibrant and sweet young Illinois resident who has been diagnosed with Bilateral Perisylvian Polymicrogyria; and

WHEREAS, Tess Drainer suffers from seizures, cerebral palsy, scoliosis, and chronic heart and lung disease as a result of the rare disorder; and

WHEREAS, Tess Drainer enjoys painting, riding her pony, and watching the movie "Disney Descendants"; above all else, she greatly enjoys spending time with her family; and

WHEREAS, Tess Drainer is an inspiration to all who meet her; as Tess battles her rare disease at a young age, she continuously serves as an example of a courageous and headstrong Illinois citizen; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we honor and recognize Dorothy Teresea-Marie "Tess" Drainer by spreading awareness of Bilateral Perisylvian Polymicrogyria across the State of Illinois and give our encouragement to all those battling rare diseases; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Tess Drainer as an expression of our deepest admiration.