Author Archives: Mary Chapman

Rare Disease Day at NIH, organized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and taking place on March 1, will feature panel discussions, patient stories, research updates, TED-style talks, and a presentation by a Nobel laureate recently recognized for her work on a gene editing tool. The free, virtual…

While progress was made last year on newborn screening and other policy issues critical to rare disease patients, a “State Report Card” argues that many concerns — notably out-of-pocket costs for prescription medicines and access to affordable comprehensive care — still need attention. Those were the findings of…

Beginning next month, Cure SMA will offer a three-part Career Panel Webinar Series tailored to the spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) community in the United States. The series, sponsored by Biogen, opens Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. EST. The hourlong event will include a question-and-answer session, and those interested…

Caring for a loved one with a rare disease, especially during these uncertain times, demands significant time, attention, patience, and dedication. To help meet that need, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)’s Rare Caregiver Respite Program may be a helpful resource. The program seeks to give…

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many activities to be online only, but in the case of this year’s Team Cure SMA endurance race series, the limitation means more people can join. Register here for the May 23 virtual endurance event, in which participants can bike, run,…

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is seeking individuals willing to share real-life experiences with rare diseases to speak at its upcoming virtual Living Rare, Living Stronger NORD Patient and Family Forum. The interactive, patient-focused forum will be held online June 26-27. The deadline to apply…

Cure SMA has developed a new three-part webinar series that delves into health and wellness topics pertinent to the spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) community. The three monthly installments of the Wellness Webinar Series will teach participants about a variety of strategies and tools that can be…

The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is encouraging the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) to recommend that people living with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) have early access to any federally approved COVID-19 vaccine. The MDA made its request in a letter to members of the…

A Neurological Alliance report is calling for improved treatment and care for the 150,000 U.K. residents living with rare neurological conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The report presents what the advocacy organization believes should be included in the U.K.’s coming new governmental framework…

To empower and equip members of the rare disease community to engage state leaders in matters of importance to patients and their families, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has launched an initiative across the U.S. Its goal is to establish a Rare Disease Advisory Council…