Whereas, Each year more than 100,000 children in the United States are born with or develop a craniofacial condition; and,

Whereas, A craniofacial condition is one that involves the head and neck, and results from abnormal growth patterns in the bones of the face and skull, causing moderate or severe disfigurement; and,

Whereas, Craniofacial conditions can also be developed through trauma and disease; and,

Whereas, Early diagnosis and surgical intervention can minimize the potential problems associated with craniofacial conditions, and a surgical correction can improve appearance as well as facial function while easing the emotional stress of those affected with the condition; and,

Whereas, Craniofacial surgery encompasses a broad spectrum of reconstructive procedures aimed at correcting differences of the cranium and face; and,

Whereas, Correcting craniofacial conditions improves self-esteem and confidence, and eases the emotional stress for children and their families; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim February 2008, as Craniofacial Awareness Month in Michigan.