Category: Summer 2024

YOU’RE MOVING RESEARCH FORWARD

Muscular Dystrophy Canada is the only dedicated source of funding for neuromuscular research in Canada. Because of donors, volunteers, Fire Fighters and incredible supporters, like you, we invested $900,000 into nine clinical and translational research projects through the Neuromuscular Research Grants Competition this year. Thanks to your generosity, we also invested $63,630 towards an innovative study led by Dr Gonorazky on Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, bringing our research investment for this year closer to $1 million.

In recent years, neuromuscular research has undergone significant transformations, leading to changes in clinical standards, improved diagnoses and breakthroughs in treatment discovery. Continued investment in research is key to keeping and accelerating this momentum moving forward.

“We want to thank the clinicians and researchers on our Scientific Review Panel, as well our Lived Experience Readers who volunteered their time and expertise in selecting this year’s recipients.”

— Stacey Lintern, CEO,
Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

See the full announcement

UNWAVERING COMMITMENT: FIRE FIGHTERS AND MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY CANADA CELEBRATE 70TH ANNIVERSARY

Through boot drives and tolls on local roads, community barbeques,
rooftop campouts, car washes, stair climbs and raffles – you name it – more than 600 fire departments, locals and associations across our country work with Muscular Dystrophy Canada every year so they can give all neuromuscular disorders “the boot” in this lifetime.

Fire Fighters have hosted these fundraising events for 70 years to support people affected by neuromuscular disorders.

“When it’s Fire Fighters and MDC together, we’re a family, and we know they need our help. So, when it comes to fundraising, I say, give me a challenge, and I’ll give you my best,” said volunteer Fire Fighter with Middlesex County, Launie Fletcher. Launie has been fundraising with Muscular Dystrophy Canada for 40 years!

Fundraising events also provide Fire Fighters with an opportunity to meet Canadians affected by neuromuscular disorders and see how they’re helping transform lives.

City of Edmonton career Fire Fighter, Courtney Polson added, “Events are just so rewarding for everybody because we see the difference they make. With Muscular Dystrophy Canada, I’ve seen firsthand where the money goes – how it makes a difference in people’s lives.”

To learn more about our 70-year partnership with Fire Fighters or to make a gift of appreciation, visit FilltheBoot.ca.

Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s partnership with Fire Fighters started in
1954
Total amount raised
by Fire Fighters over
70 years:
$103,607,542
2023:
$2.5 million
2024 goal:
$3.2 million

LET’S PARTNER TO ACHIEVE EVEN MORE! TOGETHER, WE HAVE ACCOMPLISHED SO MUCH AND WE KNOW THERE IS MORE TO DO

At Muscular Dystrophy Canada we understand that every community is diverse in its needs and priorities.

Help shape your community’s priorities, set goals, and create important action plans that we can achieve together. We’re inviting people affected by neuromuscular disorders, family members, caregivers, Fire Fighters, donors, healthcare professionals, researchers, and supporters to tell us what is most
meaningful in your local community!

Register and join a town hall meeting near you. If you don’t see a location that is close to you… don’t worry we are only getting started. More communities will be added after these initial consultations are completed. Have questions? Contact us at community@muscle.ca.

Access the registration form and all key dates

BRINGING THE NEUROMUSCULAR COMMUNITY TOGETHER TO CONNECT, REST AND SHARE EXPERIENCES

Thanks to generous supporters, like you, Muscular Dystrophy Canada offers two types of retreats. Caregiver Retreats offer anyone taking care of someone affected by a neuromuscular disorder a relaxing weekend away. And Family Retreats bring the entire family together to meet other families from their area and enjoy various activities and entertainment.

“This retreat changed my life and allowed me to make many new connections. I won’t miss any future retreats. They are so important and life-changing for those of us who have loved ones that struggle with daily life.”

— 2023 Muscular Dystrophy Canada Caregiver Retreat attendee.

Upcoming Family Retreats:

  • Quebec: September 20-22 | Camp Papillon, Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez
  • Ontario: September 20-22 | Camp Fire Circle, Rosseau
  • British Columbia: October 4-6 | Camp Shawnigan, Shawnigan Lake
  • Alberta: Date and location coming soon!

Upcoming Caregiver Retreat:

  • Ontario: October 18-20 | Ramada, Bellville

Register or learn more about retreats

WALK & ROLL SEASON HAS OFFICIALLY STARTED

A huge thank you to everyone who participated in one of the 23 events this Spring. Whether you donated, volunteered, hosted your own event, or attended an event as a participant, THANK YOU for supporting the Walk & Roll for Muscular Dystrophy Canada and for helping to break down barriers for the neuromuscular community. And while we might be halfway through the season, there is still plenty of time to register for the Fall events.

Upcoming Walk and Roll’s include:

  • September 7 – Jonquiere, QC
  • September 8 – Belleville/Kingston, ON
  • September 22 – Calgary, AB & Vancouver Island, BC
  • September 29 – Toronto, ON

TBD:

  • Sherbrooke, QC
  • Surrey/Burnaby, BC
  • Grande Prairie, AB

At each Walk & Roll you’ll enjoy an amazing day filled with fun, community, and support for the neuromuscular community. Join us and help break down barriers for Canadians affected by neuromuscular disorders. Register today at WalkRollMDC.ca