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Advocate for myotonic dystrophy

By speaking up together, we can help increase research funding, advance new therapies, and improve care for everyone living with DM.

How we're driving change

The Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation drives change by uniting the DM community to advocate for stronger research funding, better care, and faster progress toward treatments. By engaging policymakers, empowering advocates, and amplifying patient voices, MDF helps shape public policy, advance clinical research, and improve quality of life for everyone affected by myotonic dystrophy.

Change happens when we speak together

When our community unites, our voices are stronger. By advocating, educating, and supporting one another, we drive progress in care, therapies, and research for myotonic dystrophy.

You have a voice and a vote, and they matter! When members of Congress hear directly from their constituents, they better understand what issues are important to the people they represent. If they never hear from the DM community, they may not realize how urgently research funding and supportive policies are needed.

Your outreach can influence how a Senator or Representative approaches a vote or chooses to support DM-related priorities. Advocacy is one way you can help shape decisions that improve the lives of people living with DM.

Grassroots advocacy is when individuals come together to educate elected officials about the needs of their communities and ask for support. When people who share common goals speak up collectively, they can influence funding decisions and public policies that affect the lives of people across the country, including those living with DM.

Yes. Members of Congress pay close attention to the views of their constituents. While they may have established positions on major national issues, many are open to learning more about conditions like myotonic dystrophy and the needs of the communities affected.

Your voice could help educate an elected official, build a new relationship, or even inspire a long-term champion for DM research and related policy goals.

From the Digital Academy

Clinical trials & drug approval

Industry Updates - 2025 MDF Conference

Published: June 16, 2025

Myotonic Dystrophy Industry Updates was presented in partnership by Euro-DyMA (European Dystrophia Myotonica Association) and the Myoto...
Community voices & inspiration

MDF State Advocacy Training

Published: February 20, 2025

Join MDF Advocates across the U.S. who are making their voices heard in Congress! Email your Senators and Representatives.
Community voices & inspiration

Advocate for Myotonic Dystrophy Research Funding

Published: March 1, 2024

Watch the 2024 Rare Disease Day Webinar for guidance on building relationships with elected officials and advancing research funding go...

Advocacy resources

Your voice makes a difference

If you’re ready to get started or need support along the way, please contact MDF at 415-800-7777 or info@myotonic.org.