American Dystonia Society To Launch Grassroots Awareness Campaign
Dystonia, the 3rd most common movement disorder, may affect up to 1,000,0000 Americans. Yet, it is relatively unknown as the 100th year anniversary of its first diagnosis approaches. American Dystonia Society aims to increase awareness as a priority
Online, October 19, 2010 (Newswire.com) - This month, four American flags will be flown over the US Capitol as requested by American Dystonia Society (ADS). This will kick off its grassroots "Do It For Dystonia" awareness campaign. The 3rd most common neurological movement disorder, it is the least known and least recognizable. Affecting up to 1 million Americans, it's nearly unknown status is a major concern for ADS and its supporters. Donations for other neurological disorders and diseases outpace that for Dystonia by a ratio of up to 40 to 1. On the verge of commemorating the 100th anniversary its first diagnosis in 1911, it is on the brink of going from virtually unknown to forgotten. With "Do It For Dystonia", ADS aims to reverse that trend.
"Do It For Dystonia" will empower people who suffer from the many forms of dystonia. their loved ones, friends, and caregivers to spread awareness from the simplest form of expression: word of mouth to various activities which will be outlined in a website that is soon to be active. The emphasis will NOT be on fundraising but raising awareness. From reaching out to next door neighbors, media, and elected representatives to going to schools and community meetings and approaching small businesses for help, ADS aims to empower the people to let the entire country know of a silent disorder that does not discriminate with respect to age, race, country of birth, education, sex, wealth, religion, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or profession.
Within a year, ADS hopes to improve the state of awareness in the USA so anyone who hears the word dystonia will do more than return a blank look of ignorance.
