RESOLUTION RS2017-934

A resolution designating Tuesday, November 7, 2017 as “Color the World Orange Day” in the city of Nashville to bring attention to Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

WHEREAS, ‘Color the World Orange’ is an annual event held the first Monday of November to spread awareness of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD); and

WHEREAS, CRPS is a form of chronic pain believed to be caused by damage to, or malfunction of the peripheral and central nervous system that usually affects one or both arms or legs and can develop after an injury, surgery or stroke; and

WHEREAS, the condition is characterized by continuous, often burning, severe pain that is out of proportion to the initial injury, and pain that persists long after the initial injury has healed; and

WHEREAS, CRPS is more common in women, but can occur in anyone at any age, with a peak at age forty; and

WHEREAS, frequently, the exact cause of CRPS is unclear and therefore, diagnosis only occurs after a patient has suffered months or even years; and

WHEREAS, currently, there is no specific test to confirm CRPS and diagnosis is based on a person’s medical history, and signs and symptoms that match the definition; and

WHEREAS, it is important to bring attention to this condition so those suffering from CRPS may receive earlier diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately have a better chance of leading lives that are not impacted by debilitating, chronic pain.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing the importance of raising awareness about Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, and do hereby proclaim Tuesday, November 7, 2017 to be “Color the World Orange Day” in Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee, thereby urging all citizens to show their support in the fight against this illness by commemorating this day and wearing the color orange.

Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Kathleen Murphy