Gov. Nathan Deal presents a proclamation declaring Feb. 15 as Lupus Awareness Day. The governor (in middle front) is joined by Martha Myler (on right of governor holding the proclamation), president of the Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter, lupus patients and their families, as well as volunteers at the State Capitol. Lupus affects more than 55,000 Georgians, mostly African-American women. The Georgia chapter is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Georgians with lupus by providing free educational services, support and outreach services, and promoting programs of advocacy, awareness and research. The chapter also supports efforts to fund and advocate for investment in lupus treatments that will hopefully lead to a cure.