January 2009 Charity-of-the-Month

Charity: Muscular Dystrophy Canada, Calgary Chapter Program: Helping to Make Muscles Move Again

In 1954, a small group of Canadian families were drawn together by a common desire. Each family had a son with muscular dystrophy, and the parents wanted to do something to help their boys, and others like them.

They formed the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada (later renamed Muscular Dystrophy Canada), to further research into the causes of neuromuscular disorders.

$60 Million for Research

In the years since, Muscular Dystrophy Canada has drawn support from thousands of citizens, from Fire Fighters, and from celebrities including Bobby Orr, the hockey player, Gordon Pinsent, the actor, and Kurt Browning, the world champion figure skater. Over $60 million has been raised for research.

And today, Muscular Dystrophy Canada has 38 chapters across Canada, including the one in Calgary that is this month's recipient of $1,000 from ClearView Plumbing & Heating.

Improving the Lives of Canadians with Neuromuscular Disorders

In addition to funding for research, Muscular Dystrophy Canada also provides invaluable help and support that enhances the quality of life for Canadians with neuromuscular disorders. This support includes:

Referrals. Connecting persons with neuromuscular disorders with clinics, agencies, and others who can help them find solutions to the many problems they face in their everyday lives.
Peer Support. Volunteers who have experienced living with a neuromuscular disorder are trained as supporters and mentors for clients with similar disorders. They offer tips on coping and an ’understanding ear’ to persons with neuromuscular disorders or to family members who need support and encouragement.
Mobility Equipment Program. MDC provides basic mobility equipment, on loan, from a stock of recycled devices such as scooters, manual and electric wheelchairs, and hospital beds. Some funding assistance may be available for the purchase of new equipment.
Social Action - Collaborating for Change. MDC engages in social action to ensure that people with neuromuscular disorders are able to participate fully in all aspects of daily living. MDC works with other organizations to bring about policy changes at the provincial and federal level, and by providing volunteers in community chapter offices with the tools they need to participate in local advocacy efforts.

Walk for Muscular Dystrophy

Walk for Muscular Dystrophy is the organization's signature event. Walks are scheduled in more than 30 cities and towns across Canada, including Calgary.

To make a donation, to participate in a Walk for Muscular Dystrophy, or to find out more, go to: www.muscle.ca.