WHEREAS: the Month of May, has been internationally designated as “GBS and CIDP Awareness Month” to educate the public and to focus attention on Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), rare, paralyzing and potentially catastrophic disorders of the peripheral nerves; and
WHEREAS: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and its variants, are rare conditions which can be characterized by rapid onset of weakness and, often, paralysis of the legs, arms, breathing muscles and face, in some cases leading to complete paralysis requiring life-sustaining hospital care. Often accompanied with excruciating pain; and
WHEREAS: Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) and its variants, are rare progressive conditions, which can be characterized by the onset of weakness, numbness and tingling, which can lead to the paralysis of the legs and arms and effect other areas of the body, and it is not uncommon for individuals to endure significant pain; and
WHEREAS: the cause of GBS and CIDP is unknown, and these conditions can develop in any person, regardless of age, gender or ethnic background; and
WHEREAS: GBS and CIDP have a slow and unpredictable recovery, patients and their families face an uncertain future, usually requiring months of hospital care without knowing if or when they will recover, or whether they will face long-term disabilities. Earlier diagnosis, treatment, and access to rehabilitation services can improve the chances of avoiding permanent lifelong residual damage of the nerves; and
WHEREAS: in 2003, GBS/CIDP Foundation of Canada a patient organization providing support, education, research, and advocacy, was founded so that no patient or family would go through GBS, CIDP, and variants such as MMN alone.
THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED that I, Larry Johannson, Mayor of the City of Selkirk, in the Province of Manitoba do hereby proclaim the month of May 2025 to be “GBS and CIDP Awareness Month” in Selkirk and commend its thoughtful observance to all citizens.
Larry Johannson
MAYOR
