ABOUT MDA
The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a voluntary health agency—a dedicated partnership between scientists and concerned citizens aimed at conquering 43 neuromuscular diseases that affect more than one million Americans. MDA supports more research on neuromuscular diseases than any other private-sector organization in the world. MDA scientists are at the forefront of gene therapy research and have uncovered the genetic defects responsible for several forms of muscular dystrophy, Charcot-Marie Tooth disease and ALS—more commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Locally, MDA offers comprehensive medical services at our clinics at Northwestern Memorial Faculty Foundation, University of Illinois at Chicago and Shriner’s Hospital for Children, valuable support groups, an inspiring week of summer camp for children and young adults and financial assistance with the repair of wheelchairs, leg braces and communication devices.

MDA does not solicit government grants, United Way funding or fees from those it serves; 77% of every dollar spent goes directly to research, health care services and education.