MARCH, 2024

WHEREAS, March is Amyloidosis Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and supporting those living with amyloidosis and their loved ones; and

WHEREAS, Amyloidosis is a group of diseases that occurs when an abnormal protein, known as amyloid, builds up in the tissues and organs of the body. Left untreated, the disease can result in organ failure and can be fatal; and

WHEREAS, Amyloidosis can mimic the signs and symptoms of more common medical conditions and the disease can be challenging to diagnose; and

WHEREAS, Amyloidosis often affects people who are older or middle aged; however, younger people have been diagnosed with this disease; and

WHEREAS, Some of the signs and symptoms of amyloidosis can include shortness of breath, weight loss, fatigue, swelling in the ankles and legs, numbness in the hands and feet, foamy urine, carpal tunnel syndrome, bruising around the eyes, and an enlarged tongue; and

WHEREAS, Early diagnosis can lead to better outcomes for both patients and their families; and

WHEREAS, Raising awareness about all the amyloidosis diseases, including hereditary and non-hereditary forms of the disease, can contribute to the building of healthier communities across Canada.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Ken Boshcoff, on behalf of Thunder Bay City Council, do hereby proclaim March as “Amyloidosis Awareness Month” in the City of Thunder Bay.