Today is...

[IceWizard]

Friday 23 Sep 2016

Checkers Day



Checkers Day doesn’t have anything to do with the popular board game; rather, it commemorates the famous ‘checkers‘ speech made by Richard M. Nixon in 1952 after he received an adorable Cocker Spaniel as he sought election in 1952.

Politicians are banned from taking donations for their own use so, when he was accused of this by rivals, like many others seeking election, Nixon faced allegations that he had misused donations for election expenses and syphoned these off for his personal use.

Rather than shy away from these allegations, Nixon decided to address these head-on during a 30-minute TV debate. However it was not his use of financial details that led to this speech becoming one of the most celebrated in US history, rather it was the introduction of Checkers, the Cocker Spaniel, to the public which made it memorable.

Voters were won over when Nixon told them about his children’s love for Checkers. “Our little girl named it Checkers and, you know, the kids, like all kids, love the dog and I just want to say this right now, that regardless of what they say about it, we’re gonna keep it.”

Still, that’s no reason not to have a game or two of checkers – and you’ll probably have more fun anyway.



And



Restless Legs Awareness Day



Restless Legs Awareness Day aims to promote awareness of this medical condition or syndrome.

It is held on the same day each year to coincide with the birth date of Professor Karl- Axel Ekborn (born 23rd September 1907, died 1977). This eminent Swedish neurologist first wrote and described the disease in 1945.

Since then, a lot has been learned about its symptoms although (to date) there is no known primary cause. It may be associated with dopamine or blood iron levels.

Characterised by urges to move the legs even when at rest, it can also sometimes occur in the arms.

Secondary causes include some medication or other pre-disposing medical conditions. International Awareness Day aims to increase understanding of RLS and the jerky movements and in some cases distress caused.

A cure is still being sought. In 2013, the North Carolina (USA) proclaimed that this day should be observed by all citizens.