What we do
Breaking down barriers
Over 27,000 people across Canada turn to Muscular Dystrophy Canada for support with neuromuscular disorders (NMDs).
NMDs affect mobility, independence, and quality of life — that’s why we work to remove barriers to care, connection, and essential resources.
Our compassionate team helps individuals and families navigate the healthcare system, access equipment funding, and stay informed on research and clinical trials.
With the support of Fire Fighters, donors, volunteers, and community members, we’ve made real progress — from early screening initiatives and care advancements to much-needed research investment.
Together, we will ensure people living with neuromuscular disorders can access opportunities equal to their inner strength.
Our priorities
Driving revenue generation: As a charitable organization that relies on donor dollars, increased revenue means we can better meet the needs of our community.
Learn more in our 2023-28 Strategic plan.
(Accessible version available upon request.)
Improving public access to healthcare, information, education and other community resources, so we can influence public policy decisions that help the neuromuscular community.
Driving revenue generation: As a charitable organization that relies on donor dollars, increased revenue means we can better meet the needs of our community.
Our impact
For over 70 years, we’ve been driving real, life-changing progress — expanding vital programs, securing policy wins, and uniting the brightest minds in neuromuscular research and care. Here are just a few recent ways in which we’ve led the way in breaking down barriers for our community:
After years of our determined advocacy, spinal muscular atrophy is now included in newborn screening programs across Canada. This means babies can receive life-changing treatment before symptoms appear, giving them the best possible start in life – no matter where in the country they live.
We co-led national consultations and partnered with leading disability organizations to help shape Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan and inform the creation of the Canada Disability Benefit, an important step towards financial security for people with disabilities including many in the neuromuscular community.
As a founding partner of the Neuromuscular Disease Network for Canada, we are bringing together researchers, clinicians and community members to find collaborative approaches to accelerating diagnosis, treatment and care. Because when we work together, we break down barriers and push progress forward – faster.
Celebrating your impact
Learn how your support is helping to break down barriers for the neuromuscular community in Canada.
Celebrating your impact
Our mission, vision and values
Our mission
To support Canadians affected by neuromuscular disorders by funding research into life-changing therapies and treatments; delivering customized supports for clients and their families; advocating for positive changes in public policies that affect our community; and building partnerships that will lead to tomorrow’s groundbreaking discoveries.
Our vision
To find a cure for neuromuscular disorders in our lifetime.
Our values
Determination: We are resolute. No matter what the obstacle, we will not be deterred.
Courage: We bravely move forward even when we are afraid or unsure where the road will lead.
Passion: Our enthusiasm and our appetite to learn, grow and make a difference are insatiable.
Caring: We have genuine human concern for others that is never contrived and without a hint of pity or sympathy.
“I am living my best life. I am grateful that I have access to a treatment that slows down the progression of my neuromuscular disorder. This would have not been possible without Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s outstanding research and advocacy efforts!”
Client of Muscular Dystrophy Canada