Spina Bifida Awareness Month

Proclamation
By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, Spina Bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs within the first month of pregnancy resulting in an incomplete closure of the spinal column; and

WHEREAS, there are 60 million women at risk of giving birth to a child with Spina
Bifida and each year, approximately 7 in 10,000 babies are affected by this
birth defect; and

WHEREAS, there are more than 70,000 men, women and children throughout the United States who are challenged by the nation’s most common permanently disabling birth defect; and

WHEREAS, folic acid, taken as a daily vitamin supplement, prevents up to 70% of Spina Bifida incidence among pregnancies; and

WHEREAS, the Spina Bifida Association of America (SBAA), is the only national voluntary health agency focused exclusively on serving those with Spina Bifida; and

WHEREAS, the mission of SBAA is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and to enhance the lives of all affected. The Association was founded in 1973 to address the specific needs of the Spina Bifida community and serves as the national representative of almost 60 chapters. The Association’s efforts benefit thousands of infants, children, adults, parents and professionals each year:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim October 2015 as

Spina Bifida Awareness Month

in the State of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 25th day of September 2015.

Robert Bentley
Governor