HR0278 100TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0278 LRB100 12214 MST 24695 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Sarcoidosis is a non-contagious, systemic disease of unknown origin and is commonly diagnosed with the detection of inflamed, microscopic growths, called granulomas, which most commonly affect the lungs but can affect any organ in the body; many individuals stricken with sarcoidosis eventually develop serious disabling conditions caused by damage to vital organs, such as eyes, lungs, heart, brain, kidneys, and the central nervous system; and

WHEREAS, Sarcoidosis is a disease that affects many of our fellow citizens and people around the world, and still remains a mystery; skin-related symptoms of this chronic, multi-system disease were first recognized over 100 years ago; however, the effects of sarcoidosis on other bodily organs were not observed until the first quarter of the 19th century; today, researchers are still trying to learn more about the cause and the nature of this affliction; and

WHEREAS, Researchers believe sarcoidosis results from the inhalation of an infectious or allergic substance from the environment, while others believe it is caused by an alteration of the body's cellular immune system; and

WHEREAS, The National Sarcoidosis Society provides services, educational awareness, and telephone support to patients, veterans, and their families as well as developing an ongoing campaign to promote increased awareness and medical research into this debilitating disease; and

WHEREAS, Sarcoidosis is found throughout the world and affects numerous citizens in Illinois; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDREDTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare April 1, 2017 as "Sarcoidosis Day" in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to National Sarcoidosis Society Out Reach Director Brenda Little.