In recognition of International Myotonic Dystrophy Awareness Day on September 15, this special MDF advocacy presentation explores how community members in the United States and Canada can ask their local, state, or provincial governments to officially recognize the day.
Explore MDF’s Proclamation Toolkit!
Hosted by Kevin Brennan, MDF Advocacy Lead, the program opens with remarks from Dr. Tanya Stevenson, MDF Chief Executive Officer, and features three advocates sharing their proclamation experiences:
- Jim Dolan, MDF community advocate and volunteer support group facilitator, shares his experience working with government officials in Massachusetts.
- Beth Feigenblatt, MDF Awareness Ambassador and volunteer support group facilitator, discusses her proclamation advocacy in Florida and the lessons she learned along the way.
- Dr. Homira Osman of Muscular Dystrophy Canada discusses the Manitoba proclamation and offers practical guidance for advocates across Canada.
The presentation will help you understand how to:
- Find and contact the appropriate government office
- Make a clear and effective proclamation request
- Share your personal connection to myotonic dystrophy
- Build local awareness after a proclamation is issued
Explore MDF’s Proclamation Toolkit!
MDF is also calling on advocates in the United States to contact their U.S. Senators and support $10 million in dedicated myotonic dystrophy research funding, along with increased funding for the National Institutes of Health.
Whether you request a proclamation, contact your Senators, or take both actions, your voice can help increase awareness and build a better future for everyone living with myotonic dystrophy.
