BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA 
 
WHEREAS: WHEREAS: 
WHEREAS: 
WHEREAS: 
WHEREAS: WHEREAS: THEREFORE: 
 
A PROCLAMATION 
LUPUS AWARENESS DAY 
Lupus is a disabling and sometimes fatal immune system disorder that affects the skin, joints, and one or more internal organs in varying combinations. The immune system, which normally protects the body, attacks its own healthy cells; and 
Every year 50,000 men, women and children are diagnosed with lupus, which causes 3,000 annual deaths. Approximately 55,000 Georgians are currently living with lupus. Lupus strikes mostly women of childbearing age. African Americans, Hispanics and Latinos, Asian Americans, and Native Americans are two to three times more likely to develop lupus; and 
Although lupus is widespread and affects many individuals, there is a strong need to focus awareness and understanding of a disease with which most Americans are not familiar. Lupus can be particularly difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to those of many other illnesses and little is understood about its causes; and 
The effects of lupus on a family can be devastating in that it is a chronic, lifelong, and potentially life-threatening disease. Despite its prevalence, it remains one of the least recognizable and most misunderstood diseases. More than half of those eventually diagnosed with lupus take four or more years and visit three or more doctors before obtaining a proper diagnosis; and 
Nevertheless, for many people with lupus, effective treatment can minimize symptoms, reduce inflammation, and maintain normal body functions; and 
The State of Georgia joins the Georgia Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America and other interested agencies and organizations in promoting awareness of lupus research and education; now 
I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim February 18, 2014, as LUPUS AWARENESS DAY in Georgia and encourage our citizens to become knowledgeable about lupus and its impact on the human body, families, and communities. 
In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 8th day of January in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen. 
 
ATTEST 
 
GOVERNOR