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ALS Awareness Month in the United States occurs each year in May. Its purpose is to bring awareness to the disease and help raise funds to find a cure. ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is neurodegenerative. This fatal disease affects the nerve cells (motor neurons) that control a person’s muscles. As neurons deteriorate, the brain loses the ability to start and control voluntary muscle movement. It is why people with ALS often lose the ability to speak: the disease slowly paralyzes its victims, eventually taking away the ability to breathe. ALS was first discovered in 1869 by French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot. It would be another 70 years before most people heard of the disease. In 1939 Lou Gehrig ended his career due to it. Lou Gehrig was a professional baseball player from 1923-1939. He died of ALS in 1941, just 17 days shy of his 39th birthday. Today, there is still no cure for the cruel disease that took his name — and life.

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May

Amaranth Month: May

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May is Amaranth Month. Amaranth is a grain revered for its nutrient-rich profile and versatility. Though tiny, amaranth is a mighty grain easily distinguished by its vibrant colors ranging from gold to red. It was a staple food of the native tribes of Central America for centuries, culminating in Mexico's Aztec Empire. Its colorful composition rendered it an integral part of Aztec religious ceremonies, leading to its banning by Spanish conquistadors despite its nutritional value. The grain survived in rural isolation high in Mexico and the South American Andes mountainous regions. It would remain primarily hidden and unknown until the late twentieth century. Beloved for its slightly nutty and earthy flavor, amaranth is often cooked like rice, added to soups, or used to make porridge. It's also ground into flour for baking, offering a protein-rich alternative to traditional wheat flour. Naturally gluten-free, it is particularly appealing in the West, where identity dieting flourishes. In addition to protein, amaranth is high in fiber and essential minerals like magnesium and iron; it's a nutrient powerhouse. Amaranth is incredibly versatile. In Mexico and Central America, it is often popped like popcorn and mixed with honey or molasses to make a sweet treat known as 'alegría.' In India, amaranth infuses various dishes, particularly during fasting seasons, as it is considered a fasting grain. The leaves of the amaranth plant are also edible, making them a leafy vegetable and a tasty addition to salads. Amaranth's history is a story of resilience and revival, ascending to a cornerstone of ancient Aztec civilization, then crashing to its near disappearance and subsequent resurgence as a global superfood. Amaranth Month is an excellent opportunity to discover this unique grain and mix up your diet a bit.

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May

Arthritis Awareness Month, Ntl.: May

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The Arthritis Foundation sponsors National Arthritis Awareness Month each May. Though most people associate arthritis with aging, it affects all ages. Two-thirds of people with arthritis are under 65, and some of the most severe forms of arthritis occur in teenagers or people in their 20s and 30s. Arthritis Awareness Month is a multi-year campaign geared at debunking the myths of arthritis. It includes The Faces of Arthritis campaign featuring public service ads focusing on the harsh realities of arthritis and dispelling the common stereotypes often associated with the disease. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States and affects 50 million people, 20 percent of the population or one in five adults. “Arthritis is common, costly and painful, and people think that there is nothing you can do about it. Misconceptions around the disease contribute to millions living with arthritis pain and the persistent attitude of complacency toward the disease and its impact,” says Arthritis Foundation Vice President of Public Health Policy and Advocacy, Dr. Patience White. The United Kingdom has an arthritis care awareness week in mid-May, and Canada has set aside September as its arthritis awareness month. The US Arthritis Foundation also sponsors Juvenal Arthritis Month in July.

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May

Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month: May

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On October 14, 2009, President Obama signed an executive order that restored the White House Initiative and President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to address issues concerning the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month was first declared by President Roosevelt in 1942 following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The following is an excerpt from his speech: "… America's AAPI communities, we're talking about the industry and entrepreneurship of people who've helped build this nation for centuries: from the early days, as laborers on our railroads and farmers tilling our land, to today, as leaders in every sector of American life, from business to science to academia, law and more. We're talking about the creative energies of musicians like the singers Penn Masala -- we appreciate them -- who performed today. And we're talking about the competitive spirit of athletes like Wat Misaka, who played for the New York Knicks in 1947—the first non-white player in the NBA -- and who served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Mr. Misaka is here as well today and—where's Mr. Misaka? There he is. Thank you so much. (Applause.) We're talking about the public service of leaders like Secretaries Gary Locke, Steven Chu, Eric Shinseki, and the folks on stage with me today. And we're talking about the courage, patriotism, and sacrifice of heroes like the 442nd Regimental Combat Team members who served in World War II, including Terry Shima. Please give him a big round of applause. (Applause.) Mr. Shima is the Executive Director of the Japanese American Veterans Association, and we are grateful that he took the time to be here today. Some of their families had been interned, and some interned themselves. But they still insisted on fighting for America and went on to become the most highly decorated unit of their size in history. And one regiment member, Private Jake Kirihara, whose parents were held in a camp here in America while he fought overseas, later said: '… even though this wrong was done to us, there was never any question whether America was my country. If America needed me to help, I'll do it.' So this proud tradition of service continues today in Iraq and Afghanistan and worldwide, carried on by folks like Tammy Duckworth, my dear friend who's here today. (Applause.) Tammy is a decorated member of our National Guard, a passionate advocate for our wounded warriors, and is now serving as our Assistant Secretary of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Veterans Affairs Department. I'm proud to have her on board and pleased she could join us today. And on a personal note, when I talk about America's AAPI communities, I'm talking about my own family: my sister, Maya; my brother-in-law, Konrad; my beautiful nieces, Suhaila and Savita; and the folks I grew up with in Indonesia, and in Honolulu, as part of the Hawaiian Ohana, or family. Our AAPI communities have roots that span the globe, but they embody a rich diversity and a story of striving and success that are uniquely American. But focusing on all of these achievements doesn't tell the whole story, and that's part of why we're here. It's tempting, given the strengths of the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, for us to buy into the myth of the 'model minority' and to overlook the very real challenges that certain Asian American and Pacific Islander communities are facing: from health disparities like higher rates of diabetes and Hepatitis B; to educational disparities that still exist in some communities—high dropout rates, low college enrollment rates; to economic disparities—higher rates of poverty in some communities, and barriers to employment and workplace advancement in others. Some Asian American and Pacific Islanders, particularly new Americans and refugees, still face language barriers. Others have been victims of unthinkable hate crimes, particularly in the months after September 11 -- crimes driven by ignorance and prejudice that affronts everything this nation stands for. And then there are the disparities we don't even know about because our data collection methods still aren't up to par. Too often, Asian American and Pacific Islanders are all lumped into one category, so we don't have accurate numbers reflecting the challenges of each community. Smaller communities, in particular, can get lost, their needs and concerns buried in a spreadsheet. And that's why I'm signing this executive order today, reestablishing the advisory commission and White House initiative created by President Clinton 10 years ago. Because when any of our citizens—(applause)—when any of our citizens are unable to fulfill their potential due to factors that have nothing to do with their talent, character, or work ethic, then I believe there's a role for our government to play. Not to guarantee anybody's success or to solve everybody's problems, but to ensure that we're living up to our nation's ideals, to ensure that we can each pursue our version of happiness and that we continue to be a nation where all things are still possible for all people. That's the impact that our government can have…." President Barak Obama, October 14, 2009

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May

Asparagus Month, Ntl.: May

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Asparagus Month, which is celebrated annually in May, is an observance dedicated to appreciating asparagus, a nutritious and versatile vegetable. This month encourages the exploration of asparagus in various culinary forms and highlights its health benefits. Asparagus, a perennial flowering plant species in the asparagus, is known for its edible young shoots. Rich in vitamins and minerals, it's low in calories and a good source of fiber. Asparagus graces various dishes worldwide, ranging from simple steamed preparations to complex recipes in gourmet cooking. It is valued for its distinct, slightly earthy flavor and can be grilled, boiled, steamed, or roasted. THANK ZIRYAB IF YOU LOVE ASPARAGUS Asparagus made its way to the royal court meals in Andalusia, Córdoba (Spain), on the Iberian Peninsula, circa 840-852 AD. Abu al-Hasan Ali Ibn Nafi, or as he was more commonly known, Ziryab, meaning "Blackbird" or "Jaybird" in Persian, cooked and served the vegetables. He was the first to do so. Ziryab was born in 789 AD in what is today Iraq. He is one of the more interesting characters in history, rising from slavery to the top of the royal court during his life. Thanks to him, we have music schools, toothpaste, deodorant, clothes for different seasons, asparagus, and a three-course meal, and those are just his most well-known contributions. TYPES OF ASPARAGUS Asparagus, known scientifically as Asparagus officinalis, is primarily classified into three main types based on color: green, white, and purple. Each type has unique characteristics and is grown and prepared differently. Green Asparagus: This is the most common type found in grocery stores. It's known for its vibrant green color and earthy, slightly grassy flavor. Green asparagus gets its color from photosynthesis as it grows above ground in the sun. White Asparagus: Grown mainly in Europe, white asparagus is cultivated by depriving the plants of sunlight (a process known as etiolation). This lack of the sun prevents the production of chlorophyll, which is what gives green asparagus its color. White asparagus is thicker, more tender than the green variety, and has a milder, more delicate flavor. Purple Asparagus: This variety has a burgundy to purple color due to the presence of anthocyanins (plant pigments). It is generally sweeter, more tender than green asparagus, and has a fruitier flavor. Purple asparagus turns green when it's cooked. WHERE ASPARAGUS IS GROWN Asparagus is grown in many parts of the world, with each region having its own preferred variety: Green Asparagus: Widely grown in the United States (mainly California, Michigan, and Washington), parts of Europe, and other countries with similar climates. White Asparagus: Popular and primarily grown in parts of Europe, especially Germany, France, Spain, and the Netherlands. Purple Asparagus: Less common than the other varieties, it is mainly grown in Italy. Asparagus thrives in temperate climates where the ground freezes in the winter, as the plant needs a period of dormancy. The soil type, climate, and cultivation method all play a role in asparagus's flavor and texture. Asparagus Month is an unofficial event aligning with the vegetable's peak season. The month is an opportunity to educate people on asparagus' nutritional value and encourage its use in diverse and nutritious recipes.

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May

Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month: May

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May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, as the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) proclaimed. May is the peak season for asthma and allergy sufferers. The month is devoted to limiting exposure to allergens and helping people who have them manage them.

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May

Barbecue Month, Ntl.: May

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Every May, to kick off the summer, Americans celebrate National Barbecue Month. Whether you’re a sucker for tri-tip or a master at grilling veggies, this is the month to take the kitchen outside and discover the delicious flavors of flame-cooked food. Barbecue parties are a worldwide tradition, bringing together families and friends. Every culture barbecues and loves to bbq, and this is the month to celebrate it.

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May

Bike and Bicycle Safety Month: May

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National Bike and Bike Safety Month occurs each May seeking to share the joys and benefits of bicycling in communities nationwide. Find out what’s going on in your community. Search our national database for events in your area and contact your local advocacy organization, favorite bike shop, or bike collective to get plugged into the happenings in your community.

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May

Blood Pressure Month, Ntl.: May

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May is High Blood Pressure Education Month. One in three American adults has high blood pressure, also called hypertension, and that's 67 million people who have to work to check their blood pressure daily. Unfortunately, more than half of people with high blood pressure do not have their condition under control. Blood pressure is normal when systolic pressure (the higher number) is less than 120 mmHg, and diastolic pressure (the lower number) is less than 80 mmHg. People at risk for high blood pressure, often called prehypertension, have systolic pressure between 120 and 139 mmHg or diastolic between 80 and 89 mmHg. High blood pressure means systolic pressure is 140 mmHg or higher or diastolic is 90 mmHg or higher. Talk with your healthcare team about your personal blood pressure goal.

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May

Borderline Personality Disorder Awareness Month: May

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Borderline personality disorder (BPD), marked by the inability to manage emotions, is a serious mental illness affecting nearly six percent of the population, millions worldwide. Symptoms generally occur in adolescence or early adulthood and can be present in familial relationships, business relationships, or both. Signs of BPD include impulsiveness, reckless behavior, and an inability to maintain healthy relationships. BPD often compounds other issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders. BPD Month is an opportunity to learn about this mental illness, how to best interact with persons suffering, and learn about techniques for managing it.

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May

Brain Tumor Action Month: May

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Promoted by the National Brain Tumor Society, Brain Tumor Action Month raises awareness about brain tumors and provides the means for treatment, support, and early detection. Annually, brain tumors are discovered in nearly 200,000 Americans. Particularly in children, a brain tumor is considered the most deadly type of cancer, and brain tumors are the third most dangerous cancer in 20-39-year-olds.

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May

Building Safety Month, Ntl.: May

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National Building Safety Month has been an annual event since 1980 with presidential support since 2011. The following is from that Presidential Proclamation: "Building safety is a critical component of our homeland security, personal and public safety, property protection, and economic well-being. While disasters have had devastating and heartbreaking effects in our country and around the world, modern building safety standards and fire prevention codes help us withstand, mitigate, and rapidly recover from hurricanes, winter storms, tornadoes, earthquakes, and floods. It is our collective responsibility as a Nation—nonprofit organizations and the public and private sectors—to implement effective standards and codes that sustain safe and resilient structures. We need innovation and partnerships at all levels of society to develop transformative breakthroughs in building materials and construction techniques that strengthen the integrity of our homes, workplaces, and commercial facilities. Building safety and fire prevention officials, architects, engineers, design professionals, builders, and others in the construction industry work every day to ensure the sound construction of buildings and the safety of our citizens. Their efforts to construct or retrofit buildings that utilize state-of-the-art safety, energy efficiency, and fire prevention standards are important to our national resilience and our ability to compete in the 21st-century economy. As a resilient Nation, we must continue to do everything in our power to enhance our ability to withstand and rapidly recover from natural and manmade disasters, disruptions, and emergencies." President Barak Obama May 2011

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May

Cancer Research Month, Ntl.: May

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The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) acknowledges May as National Cancer Research Month, declared by the United States Congress in 2007 and 2011, in recognition of high-quality, innovative cancer research. How can you help? Call on Congress to make cancer research a top national priority. Federal funding for medical research continues to decline, threatening the future health of Americans. This is a necessary time to educate lawmakers about the importance of robust investment in the National Cancer Institute and the National Institutes of Health. Take action now! Learn how you can volunteer on behalf of the AACR. Donate to the AACR Foundation for the Prevention and Cure of Cancer. The foundation accelerates progress in the conquest of cancer by providing financial support for cancer research with the highest potential for impact. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) endorses the American Association for Cancer Research as a BBB Wise Giving Alliance charity.

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May

Car-Keeping Month, Ntl. Good: May

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National Good Car Keeping Month occurs each May and reminds Americans to prepare their cars for summer driving. Key tips include: Radiator flushes. Rotating tires and checking the pressure. Replacing brake pads if needed. Replacing windshield wipers and wiper fluid. Getting an oil change. Car owners are urged to keep a fire extinguisher, window cleaner, and paper towels in their cars (bugs tend to cloud windshields in rural areas during the summer quickly). Recommended as well, an extra gallon of water for radiators and an extra quart of oil as a safety precaution. Advertising agency Sander Allen Advertising created the event.

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May

Celiac Awareness Month (CA): May

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Celiac Awareness Month in Canada is promoted by Canadian Celiac Association chapters coast-to-coast. Its objective is to educate Canadians about celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis, and the benefits of a gluten-free diet.

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