Sen. Kissel Applauds Senate Passage of Legislation Raising PANDAS/PANS Awareness

May 17, 2023

For Immediate Release:

Sen. Kissel Applauds Senate Passage of Legislation
Raising PANDAS/PANS Awareness

Sen. John A. Kissel on May 16 applauded the State Senate’s passage of legislation which raises public awareness of PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections) and PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome). PANS is a disorder characterized by sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCD) or eating restrictions, associated with acute behavior deterioration.

“The idea for this legislation came from my constituent, Carrie Woodbury of Suffield, who is the mother of a child with PANS,” Sen. Kissel said. “Her son was initially diagnosed with PANDAS and was later diagnosed with PANS. She noted how this condition often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.  She told lawmakers that had there been proper education to diagnose and treat her son properly, he may have had a chance to live a normal life.”

“Carrie shared her compelling story with the Connecticut General Assembly, and her idea to create PANDAS/PANS Awareness Day was well-received.  Because of Carrie Woodbury’s willingness to come forward with this idea, our state can potentially now raise awareness of this health condition each year and help other families across Connecticut to gain knowledge. I thank Carrie for using her family’s story to help make a positive difference.”

The bill now awaits a vote in the House of Representatives.