REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of May 2026 as Myositis Awareness Month
Report
BACKGROUND
Myositis is a rare, chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the muscles, leading to muscle weakness, fatigue, and pain. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks muscle tissue, often affecting the hips, shoulders, and neck. Treatment includes immunosuppressants, steroids, and physical therapy to manage symptoms, as no cure currently exists.
All forms of myositis combined affect an estimated 75,000 people in the U.S. Families in California are affected by this debilitating disease and have very few treatment options. Moreover, national statistics indicate that approximately 1 in 10 people in California are living with a rare disease.
DISCUSSION
During the month of May, hundreds of neighbors and thousands of people across the United States will join The Myositis Association (TMA) in observing this special awareness month.
Myositis Awareness Month special events and activities will help foster a deeper understanding of myositis. Individuals and families affected by myositis will be sharing their stories on social media; in radio, TV, and newspaper interviews; and at community events here in California and across the United States.
The City of Santa Clara has a strong history of support for its citizens’ causes. By declaring May 2026 as Myositis Awareness Month in Santa Clara it will help raise awareness within the community.
Vickie Fairchild, a current Board Member with the Santa Clara Unified School District (SCUSD), who is afflicted with Myositis Antesynthetase and Interstitial Lung Disease caused by Myosistis will be in attendance to receive the proclamation.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimee Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of May 2026 as Myositis Awareness Month