Put on your cape this September to fight muscular dystrophy

This September (4-10) Muscular Dystrophy Australia’s (MDA) National Superhero Week encourages all Australians to dress up as their favourite superhero.

The initiative helps to raise awareness and raise funds to find a cure for the 60 genetic diseases and conditions that fall under the umbrella term muscular dystrophy.

Muscular dystrophy causes progressive and irreversible muscle wastage. The funds raised also go toward supporting those living with muscular dystrophy and their families.

MDA’s founder Boris Struk said this annual fundraising event supports the organisation’s important work towards a world without Muscular Dystrophy.

“Every dollar raised provides resources, advocacy and funding for research to help in the lives of those affected by the neuromuscular disorder,” he said.

“MDA looks after more than 30,000 Australians currently living with Muscular Dystrophy and their families, supporting them in their challenging journeys.

“Around one in every 625 children and adults in Australia live with this condition caused by mutations in genes that control the production of proteins to maintain healthy muscle tissue.

“National Superhero Week is a fun way to shine a light on a serious condition that robs people of their mobility, their goals and dreams.”

One of the many beneficiaries of MDA’s work, Lisa, said MDA has been an incredible support to her family after son Oscar’s diagnosis.

“MDA has been a great support to our family to link us to available support services for us, as well as introducing us to other families on a similar health journey,” she said.

“MDA has provided education to Oscar’s school community as to how best to care for and make their practices inclusive for him and has provided funds for a world-leading neuromuscular clinic at The Royal Children’s Hospital, where we have received fabulous medical care and support.”

Resources are available at superheroweek.org.au