Connecticut Becomes Second State to Establish NF Awareness Day into State Law

February 14 now carries even greater meaning in Connecticut.

With the passage of "An Act Designating Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day,"Connecticut has officially established February 14 as NF Awareness Day in state law. It is just the second state in the nation to enact NF awareness into law, following Ohio's 2018 legislation recognizing May as NF Awareness Month.

The Act was introduced by Rep. Tami Zawistowski and enacted following the signature of Gov. Ned Lamont. It designates February 14 each year as a day to raise awareness of neurofibromatosis, a group of genetic conditions that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and may also affect the brain, cardiovascular system, bones, and skin.

Advocacy That Sparked Action

This milestone is the result of determined, grassroots advocacy.

Connecticut advocate Amy Reay has spent the past decade leading Team Shivering Skivviesat Cupid's Undie Run Boston, building one of the event's most dedicated and successful teams. Through their efforts, she has raised significant funds for the Children's Tumor Foundation while creating widespread awareness in her hometown of Suffield and beyond.

Last year, Representative Zawistowski proposed legislation to formally recognize Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day. The chosen date, February 14, aligns with the powerful awareness and fundraising momentum driven by Cupid's Undie Run each Valentine's season. Amy testified at the State Capitol, sharing firsthand what it means to live with NF and why greater visibility matters. The bill passed unanimously in both chambers and is now part of Connecticut's statutes.

Why Recognition Matters

NF affects children and adults. It shows up differently for everyone. And for many families, it means a lifetime of medical care. There is still no cure.

Having a day officially recognized in state law elevates awareness among policymakers and the public. And it helps accelerate what the NF community is working toward: increased research investment, expanded treatment options, and meaningful progress toward cures.

With this legislation, Connecticut joins Ohio in formally recognizing NF through state law, an important step in building broader national momentum. This action builds on the dozens of cities and states across the country that issue proclamations each May during NF Awareness Month, reaffirming their commitment to raising visibility and supporting the NF community.

A Celebration of Community

The proclamation was presented in Suffield, CT at a small reception with Representative Zawistowski, Amy, members of Team Shivering Skivvies, and local supporters-an evening that reflected both celebration and purpose.

This moment belongs to a community that keeps showing up-a community that understands advocacy is built through years of persistence, storytelling, fundraising, and heart.

To Amy and the Connecticut advocates who continue to turn awareness into action-thank you for proving that you can be strong, effective advocates and have fun doing it.

February 14 in Connecticut now represents more than Valentine's Day. It represents resilience, recognition, and renewed momentum in the fight to end NF.