State Rep. Pat Outman (R-Six Lakes) introduced a resolution Tuesday acknowledging March 9-15 of this year as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Week in the state of Michigan.

MS is a neurological disease in the central nervous system affecting nearly one million people in the U.S. Sadly, it generally strikes people in the prime of their lives, between ages 20 through 50. The cause remains unknown and no cure currently exists.

“There is hope, however,” Rep. Outman said during a speech in the House chamber. “Research on pathways to cures are made possible by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society through the best medical centers, universities, and other institutions throughout the U.S. and abroad.”

In Michigan, there are 18 MS support groups led by Michigan MS leaders and supported by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society that create a collaborative community and support for all Michiganders impacted by MS.

Rep. Outman was joined by local guests from his district, Fox and Jen Small-Rigney of Lakeview, on the House floor for the introduction of his resolution. Fox was diagnosed with MS in 2012, shortly after marrying his wife, Jen. As his condition became more severe, he began volunteering for the National MS Society. In the years that followed, he began advocating for others with disabilities, eventually leading an MS support group and being names committee chair for the National MS Society’s West Michigan Engagement Committee. He also serves as the board chair for Corewell Health’s disability-focused resource group.

“It’s a pleasure to have these local advocates with me today and as members of my home community,” Rep. Outman said. “Those suffering from MS are resilient and their courage is commendable – and Fox is no exception. He’s taken his diagnosis and turned it into a positive by providing support and advocacy to others.”

Rep. Outman’s House Resolution 39 was approved with overwhelming support.

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