WHEREAS, Chiari Malformation (CM) is a serious neurological disorder affecting over 300,000 people in the United States and was first identified by Austrian pathologist Professor Hans Chiari in the 1890s; and

WHEREAS, Chiari malformations are structural abnormalities affecting the cerebellum that can disrupt the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid and place pressure on the brain and spinal cord; and

WHEREAS, while the causes of Chiari malformations are not fully understood, research suggests they may result from congenital or inherited factors as they may appear in more than one family member; and

WHEREAS, symptoms of Chiari malformations often appear during adolescence or early adulthood and may include chronic pain, balance and vision problems, muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, sleep disorders, and other neurological complications; and

WHEREAS, research is being conducted to find alternative surgical options and identify the cause of Chiari malformations to create improved treatment and prevention plans; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia remains committed to collaborating with health care professionals and community partners to raise awareness of Chiari malformations and support those affected by the condition;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize September 2026, as CHIARI MALFORMATION AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.