Description
What does MDA do to fight muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular diseases?
MDA spends $70 a minute, every minute of the year, supporting some 300 research projects worldwide searching for treatments and cures for the more than 40 diseases in its program.
How does MDA help in our community?
MDA has the most comprehensive program of any voluntary health agency in the country, providing the following services:
Clinics -- MDA’s nationwide network of medical clinics is staffed by top health professionals skilled in the diagnosis and medical management of neuromuscular diseases. Services may include occupational, physical and respiratory therapy; diagnostic tests; genetic counseling; and more.
Summer camp -- Local youngsters ages 6 to 17 with neuromuscular diseases can attend a free week of camp, with activities like fishing, dancing, games, arts and crafts, and more.
Support groups -- Local groups offer emotional and practical support to individuals affected by neuromuscular disease, their families and caregivers.
Equipment help -- MDA accepts donations of gently used durable medical equipment, repairs these items as needed, and provides them to individuals with neuromuscular disease to enhance mobility, independence and quality of life.
Free annual flu shots
Online support services -- Through MDA’s Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest communities, individuals and families can stay connected, as well as through my MuscleTeam, an online service that helps individuals and families coordinate volunteer help.
Advocacy -- MDA works with federal agencies and other organizations to accelerate therapy development and expand resources for families affected by muscle disease. MDA’s Transitions Center is an interactive site focused on empowering young people with neuromuscular disease.
Public and professional health education -- MDA provides the latest research and health care news in print and online ( mda.org ); sponsors educational conferences; and offers informational publications covering all the diseases under MDA’s umbrella, plus MDA programs and services.
