August 25, 2023
Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month and World Duchenne Awareness Day
In the US, September is observed as Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month (MDAM). The are multiple days of observance for varying muscular dystrophies in September, including World Duchenne Awareness Day (WDAD). TRiNDS happily supports and recognizes both MDAM and WDAD.
WDAD is in September and is held on the 7th of the month. This day was selected because the dating of 7/9 reflects the number of exons (79) in the dystrophin gene, the gene that causes Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) when mutated. This year’s theme for WDAD is “Breaking Barriers,” specifically referring to the physical and social barriers those impacted by DMD regularly face. It is important to recognize and combat the artificial limitations placed upon the people and families living with DMD, because these barriers are what create a hostile and exclusive environment for the same people who might need this support the most.
There are several ways you can observe MDAM and WDAD. One of the best ways you can contribute positively is by becoming more educated on muscular dystrophies and spreading awareness. World Muscle Society will be releasing a documentary on September 7th that gives insight into the lives of people with DMD. Darius Goes West is a fantastic look into the life of someone with DMD and the intense love and community that can be built around them. Watching and sharing the stories of those living with DMD will help to raise awareness, engender empathy, and encourage action, hopefully resulting in a more inclusive and collaborative future for people living with DMD.
TRiNDS is a contract research organization (CRO) dedicated to conducting rare and neuromuscular disease research. TRiNDS offers expert research and clinical trial services to sponsors and researchers around the world from project launch to closeout. We customize services to each project to meet its unique needs. Contact TRiNDS for more about how TRiNDS can help your project succeed.
