Ride4Gabe Day to End Duchenne

Proclamation

By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is, according to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, is the most common fatal genetic disorder diagnosed in childhood, affecting approximately 1 in every 3,500 live male births (about 20,000 new cases each year worldwide); and

WHEREAS, there is a tremendous need to raise awareness for this genetic condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and leads to serious medical problems and premature death because it is 100 percent fatal with no cure currently; and

WHEREAS, Michael Staley, Wes Bates and Payne Griffin are riding their bicycles from Houlton, Maine to Mobile, Alabama, a trek called Ride4Gabe, to bring the needed awareness to DMD by telling the story of Gabe Griffin, an eleven-year-old Alabamian who suffers from this debilitating condition; and

WHEREAS, we are honored as the State of Alabama to welcome and recognize these cyclists and the Hope for Gabe Foundation who are engaged in such a worthy cause; and

WHEREAS, it is boys like Gabe Griffin from Alabama who show us what real courage and strength is, inspiring all of us as they show the world they are not afraid of challenges along the way as they fight valiantly to overcome obstacles and roadblocks presented by Duchenne; and

WHEREAS, raising awareness about DMD will lead to more support and hopefully a cure in our lifetime:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim August 8, 2016, as

Ride4Gabe Day to End Duchenne

in the State of Alabama, and invite all citizens to join with me as we bring awareness to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and support these cyclists in their journey across the country to help and honor Gabe Griffin  and other patients suffering from Duchenne.

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 1st day of August 2016.

Robert Bentley

Governor