5p- Syndrome Awareness Day

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

WHEREAS, each year, in the United States alone, approximately 50 to 60 children are born with 5p- syndrome (five p minus), also known as cri du chat syndrome or cat cry syndrome; and

WHEREAS, 5p- is a term used by geneticists to describe a portion of chromosome number five that is missing in these individuals; and

WHEREAS, common characteristics of 5p- syndrome at birth are a high-pitched cry, low birth weight, poor muscle tone, microcephaly, and potential medical complications; and

WHEREAS, children born with this rare genetic defect will most likely require ongoing support from a team of parents, therapists, medical, and educational professionals to help the child achieve his or her potential; and

WHEREAS, 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the discovery of 5p- syndrome, and May 5 has been designated internationally as 5p-Syndrome Awareness Day; and

WHEREAS, one of the goals of 5p- Syndrome Awareness Day is to educate families when their child is diagnosed with 5p- syndrome;

WHEREAS, individuals with 5p- deserve to be recognized for what they can do versus what they cannot do, and through education, awareness can be raised of 5p- syndrome;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize May 5, 2023, as 5p- SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations