City of Statesville Proclaims May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month

City of Statesville, North Carolina 

Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month

May 2026

WHEREAS, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, gradually robbing individuals of their ability to move, speak, swallow, and eventually breathe; and

WHEREAS, approximately 5,000 individuals int he United States are diagnosed with ALS each year, highlighting the urgent need for continued research and awareness; and

WHEREAS, ALS affects individuals of all races, ages, genders, and backgrounds, and currently has no known cause, effective treatment, or cure; and

WHEREAS, individuals living with ALS, along with their families and caregivers, face significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges, often requiring specialized medical equipment, home modifications, and full-time care that may exceed available insurance coverage; and

WHEREAS, increasing public awareness and community engagement are essential to advancing research, improving access to care and resources, and supporting those affected by ALS with compassion and dignity; and

WHEREAS, ALS Awareness Month provides an opportunity to recognize the profound impact of this disease on individuals, families, and communities, while also honoring ongoing efforts to find treatments and a cure;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, J. Douglas Hendrix, Mayor of the City of Statesville, do hereby proclaim May 2026 as "Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month" in the City of Statesville, and encourage all citizens to join in raising awareness, supporting those affected, and promoting efforts to eliminate this disease.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have set my Hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of Statesville to be affixed this 11th day of May 2026.

J. Douglas Hendrix, Mayor

View the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month Proclamation here