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Allison Switalski suffers from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (also called or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome), a chronic neurological syndrome characterized by severe pain and extreme sensitivity to touch.

The daughter of Steve and Dorthy Switalski capped off two years of lobbying efforts by attending a February 22 ceremonial bill signing with Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm. The teen visited the governor's Lansing office for the signing of Bill 5603, which authorizes the establishment of a public education and outreach campaign to promote RSD awareness.

Since her RSD was diagnosed in 2004, Allison has become a vocal activist on behalf of fellow sufferers. She and her family have worked to raise awareness of the syndrome, which is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood.

In February 2005, she spent a day in Lansing with then state representative John Gleason, and shared RSD information with those she met. Later that year, she and fellow seventh grader Abby Stark completed and presented a social studies project about RSD and the need for an awareness law.

Genesee County Commissioner Archie Bailey joined the efforts on October 6, 2005, when he surprised Allison at school with a board of commissioners proclamation declaring it Allison Switalski Day in Genesee County.

In December 2005, Dorthy and Allison testified before the House of Representatives Health Committee about RDS/CRPS and the need for a law. Later, they joined forces with fellow RSD sufferer Jannie White of Detroit in pursuit of their mission.

White and her husband joined the Switalski family for the invitation-only signing.