Recognizing National Ataxia Awareness Day

Floor Speech

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Mr. ESPAILLAT. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Ataxia Awareness Day, and to honor the courage of the one hundred and fifty thousand Americans living with Ataxia, a neurodegenerative disease that affects the ability to coordinate movement. Those with Ataxia may have difficulty walking, speaking, and executing fine motor skills, and for some may lead to early death.

I would also like to honor the contributions of the National Ataxia Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the lives of those impacted by Ataxia including those with the disease, and their caregivers through support, education, and research.

I applaud their commitment and advocacy at the State and Federal levels to raise awareness of this disease and urge my colleagues to learn more about it and laud the efforts being taken to break down the isolation barriers and misconceptions around Ataxia.

I especially want to thank my constituent, Ms. Kim Brown for reaching out to me and my office to raise awareness of Ataxia and support research efforts to benefit those in my district and across the nation who live with this condition.

Today I stand in solidarity with all Americans battling Ataxia, and the dedicated scientists, health care workers, and caregivers who support them. I look forward to the day when this devastating condition can be cured.

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