There are many organisations worldwide that promoting awareness for neuromuscular disorders such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. One of the most prominent non-profit organisations is the "Muscular Dystrophy Association". The MDA was established in New York City in the year 1950. It's headquarters is currently stationed in Chicago, Illinois. They are also involved in countless projects worldwide, where they reach out to people who are diagnosed with DMD in both direct and indirect ways. Throughout the U.S., 350,000 people volunteered their time to host numerous summer camps and support groups for affected children and adults alike. The group also employs numerous physicians who run 150 different care centres across the United States. At these care centres, about a hundred thousand patients have been receiving specialized care. Last, the organisation also collects donations that are put towards DMD research. They are able to donate 375,000 dollars per week towards scientific breakthroughs, and they are continuously funding 200 research projects in 12 different countries. (MDA Fact Sheet, n.d.) All in all, the contributions of the MDA has no doubt impacted the world in a profound way.
In the past, the MDA has held numerous events in order to raise awareness and gain public support. The biggest event they host is an annual fundraiser called the "MDA Muscle Walk" where people across America would walk 3.1 miles in order to raise awareness for their cause. On St. Patrick's day, they hold another fundraiser where people receive paper shamrocks in return for a donation towards Muscular Dystrophy research. Other events held by the MDA include golf events, marathons, and galas. (Get Involved - Participate in an Event, 2015)
Background Image 7. The Annual Muscular Dystrophy Association's Muscle Walk. Adelaide MDA Walk [Digital image]. (n.d.). Retrieved April 12, 2016, from http://mdaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/dsc_0059-flat.jpg