MI HR0418

Declares September 23, 2014, as Chiari Awareness Day in Michigan to raise awareness of Chiari Malformation, a neurological disorder where the cerebellum descends out of the skull and places pressure on the brain and spinal cord.

Notes that Chiari Malformation was previously estimated to occur in 1 in 1000 births, but increased MRI use suggests it is more prevalent, and affects people of any age with average diagnosis in the mid-thirties.

Identifies related conditions including Hydrocephalus, Tethered Spinal Cord, Intracranial Hypertension, Syringomyelia, and Spina Bifida, and notes there is no cure, though some patients may benefit from Posterior Fossa Decompression surgery.

Encourages Michigan citizens to educate and support those affected by Chiari, recognizing it as an "invisible illness" where symptoms are often not visible to others.

Directs transmission of the resolution to the Office of the Governor of Michigan and the Director of the Department of Community Health.