BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA 
 
A PROCLAMATION 
 
CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT AWARENESS WEEK 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
Congenital heart defects are one of the most frequently occurring birth defects and one of the leading causes of deaths relating to birth defects worldwide; and 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
Over a million families across America face the challenges and hardships of raising children with congenital heart defects. Every year, 40,000 more babies are born in the United States with such conditions; and 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
Some congenital heart defects are not diagnosed until months or years after birth. Undiagnosed congenital heart conditions cause many cases of sudden cardiac death in young athletes; and 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
Despite these alarming statistics, newborns and young athletes are still not routinely screened for congenital heart defects, and more funding is needed for further research and support; and 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week provides an opportunity for families whose lives have been affected to celebrate life, remember loved ones lost, honor dedicated health professionals, and share information with the public and the media; now 
 
THEREFORE: 
 
I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim February 7-14, 2016, as CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT AWARENESS WEEK in Georgia and encourage our citizens to increase awareness, education, and services for those enduring these conditions and their families. 
 
In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 15th day of January in the year of our Lord two thousand sixteen. 
 
A1'TEST 
 
GOVERNOR 
 
CHIEF OF STAFF