Dystonia Education

Now that the summer is unofficially over, learning is happening anew as students return to schools across the country. Education is also on our minds as we finalize plans for several major educational efforts scheduled for this fall. We know that staying abreast of current developments in dystonia is critical to successfully managing this disorder. It is also important to be able to share these educational experiences with others who can truly understand dystonia – folks who are affected by dystonia either directly or through a loved one. The French poet and author, Anatole France said, “Nine tenths of education is encouragement.” We couldn’t agree more!

The Foundation has been a longtime supporter of educational opportunities – because it is important to hear from the leading medical experts but also because it is so important to connect with others – to receive and give encouragement. The DMRF will host a Western regional meeting on October 1 & 2 in Pasadena, CA and a Mid-Atlantic Meeting on November 14th in Silver Spring, MD. These meetings are designed to give you accurate, updated information but as importantly – provide you with a forum to make or renew friendships – to encourage and be encouraged.

If you can, please join us for these opportunities.

American Academy of Neurology Meeting

This week the American Academy of Neurology is meeting in Seattle for their annual meeting. The DMRF has a booth there – giving us an opportunity to talk directly with neurologists about dystonia and how the Foundation can be a resource for them in meeting the needs of people affected by dystonia. We noticed that more and more general neurologists are coming to us to ask about our patient support programs, educational materials and how we might be able to work together to meet patient needs. This is progress and something the entire dystonia community should celebrate.

This meeting also provides us with a wonderful opportunity to meet with the leaders in dystonia clinical research, members of the Dystonia Study Group and others, to discuss our upcoming plans. We are so grateful to these dedicated physicians for their great work. Many of you know them and may even be treated by them so you know first hand how committed they are to improving the lives of those living with dystonia. There are exciting new things happening that will be announced in the next few months and we will keep you posted.