WHEREAS the fear of losing one’s mind and the fear of losing control of one’s body are among the most profound human fears. Both losses occur in Huntington disease, an inherited and fatal brain disorder that strikes in the prime of life.

Every child of a parent with Huntington disease faces a 50 per cent risk of inheriting this genetic disorder and there is no effective treatment and no known cure - yet.

The Huntington Society of Canada has initiated and supported research into the cause and nature of this fatal disease, and the work of the Society has brought new hope to people with Huntington disease and families who bear the burden of this affliction.

Research continues to offer the promise of early diagnosis, treatment techniques and ultimately a cure for Huntington disease.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Rob Ford, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim May 2012 as "Huntington Disease Awareness Month" and encourage all residents to lend their support to the Huntington Society of Canada in its efforts to unravel, not only the mystery of Huntington disease, but also a wide range of other genetic, neurological and psychiatric disorders affecting the lives of so many Canadians.