240-10

240-10 September 14, 2010 RESOLUTION Whereas, Mitochondria are the power plants in every cell of a person’s body, and create more than 90% of the energy needed by the body to sustain life and support growth; and Whereas, Mitochondria may not function correctly due to genetic defects, damage caused by drugs or by destructive molecules called free radicals; and Whereas, Mitochondrial diseases can cause isolated symptoms like seizures, low blood counts, blindness, deafness, dementia, heart failure and progressive muscle weakness, but more often they cause failure of several organ systems in sequence; and Whereas, It is estimated that more than one in 4,000 children born in the United States each year will develop a mitochondrial disease by ten years of age; and Whereas, Since mitochondrial disorders mimic other diseases, it is believed that they are under diagnosed; and Whereas, Currently, no cure exists, but early diagnosis can help patients and their families use proper medication and nutritional supplements to treat the disorder, improve the quality of life, and even prolong life; and Whereas, Through public awareness, the Township of West Orange seeks to minimize the devastating effects of Mitochondrial diseases among all West Orange citizens, Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Mayor and the Township Council of the Township of West Orange do hereby recognize September 19 - 25, 2010 to be, Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Week and urge all the citizens of the Township of West Orange to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance. Karen J. Carnevale, Municipal Clerk Sal M. Anderton, Council President Adopted: September 14, 2010