MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

MDA combats more than 40 diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and community services, and far-reaching professional and public health education. With national headquarters in Tucson, Ariz., MDA has more than 150 offices across the country, sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics and supports more than 330 research projects around the world.

MDA supports more research on neuromuscular diseases than any other private-sector organization in the world. MDA-funded scientists have uncovered the genetic defects responsible for several forms of muscular dystrophy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease), spinal muscular atrophy and several other neuromuscular diseases.

The Association's comprehensive services program includes medical examinations, flu shots, support groups, MDA summer camp for youngsters, and assistance with locating and repairing durable medical equipment, including wheelchairs and leg braces.

For more information, please visit www.mda.org.