Muscular Dystrophy Association#Criticisms

The organization was founded in 1950 by a group with personal connections to muscular dystrophy, including Paul Cohen who lived with Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD).{{Cite news|last=Huang|first=Binghui|date=2017-09-02|title=Jerry Lewis' work pays off in new drugs for muscular dystrophy.|work=The Morning Call|url=https://www.mcall.com/health/mc-nws-biz-health-musculardystrophy-20170725-story.html}} Originally known as the Muscular Dystrophy Associations of America, it was renamed to its present name in the 1970s.

In 1954, MDA began its partnership with the International Association of Fire Fighters for its annual Fill the Boot fundraising drive.{{Cite web|title=Cleveland Firefighters raise over $40,000 for MDA|url=http://shoplocal.clevelandbanner.com/stories/cleveland-firefighters-raise-over-40000-for-mda,106475|access-date=2021-06-11|website=The Place|language=en}} In 1955, the organization held its first summer camp.{{Cite web|last=Cook|first=B.W.|date=2011-07-29|title=The Crowd: Fundraiser helps summer camp programs|url=https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/entertainment/tn-dpt-xpm-2011-07-29-tn-dpt-0730-cook-20110729-story.html|access-date=2021-06-11|website=Daily Pilot|language=en-US}}

In 1980, American motorcycle manufacturer Harley Davidson became an MDA National Sponsor;{{Cite web|last=Staff|first=U. M. C.|date=2009-09-11|title=Harley-Davidson contributes $4.5M to MDA|url=https://ultimatemotorcycling.com/2009/09/11/2009_harley-davidson_muscular_dystrophy_association/|access-date=2021-06-11|website=Ultimate Motorcycling|language=en-US}} in 1987 the MDA Ride For Life program began, a fundraising motorcycle ride held over Labor Day weekend.{{Cite web|last=PhD|first=Patricia Inacio|title=Virtual Events Mark MDA's Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month|date=September 2020 |url=https://musculardystrophynews.com/2020/09/01/virtual-events-mark-mda-national-muscular-dystrophy-awareness-month/|access-date=2021-06-11|language=en-US}} In 1986, oil and gas provider Citgo became a second national sponsor of the organization.{{Cite web|last=Burgeson|first=John|date=2016-12-19|title=CITGO-sponsored golf tourney raises $100k for MD|url=https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/CITGO-sponsored-golf-tourney-raises-100k-for-MD-10806152.php|access-date=2021-06-11|website=Connecticut Post|language=en-US}}

In 1982, the MDA Shamrocks program launched in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and became a national program one year later.{{Cite web|last=Barker|first=John|title=Kroger Customers Support MDA's Shamrocks Program|url=https://patch.com/georgia/douglasville/kroger-customers-support-mda-s-shamrocks-program|website=Patch|date=25 March 2013}} In 1996, MDA and Lewis were jointly honored by the American Medical Association with a lifetime achievement awards for their contributions to the health and welfare of humanity.{{Cite web|title=Jerry Lewis: Biography|url=https://www.ktre.com/story/1416480/jerry-lewis-biography|access-date=2021-06-11|website=KTRE.com|date=26 August 2003 |language=en}}

Dr. Stanley Appel established Houston Methodist Hospital's amyotrophic lateral sclerosis clinic with MDA in 1982, which has evolved into the MDA ALS Research and Clinical Center at the Houston Methodist Neurological Institute. Dr. Appel's pioneering work includes the development of an immunotherapy treatment that may slow the progression of ALS. Dr. Appel's efforts were recognized by the MDA when he received the MDA's Tribute Award in 2022.{{Cite web|title=At 89, Houston Methodist Dr. Stanley Appel still at forefront of ALS research|url=https://www.houstonchronicle.com/lifestyle/renew-houston/health/article/At-89-Houston-Methodist-Dr-Stanley-Appel-still-17218283.php|website=Houston Chronicle|access-date=2023-08-18}}

In October 2020, the MDA Telethon, which had originally run from 1966 to 2014, was reimagined as The MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon after a six-year hiatus.{{Cite web|last=Strub|first=Chris|title=After Six-Year Hiatus, Reimagined MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon Returns October 24|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/chrisstrub/2020/10/13/after-six-year-hiatus-reimagined-mda-kevin-hart-kids-telethon-returns-oct-24/|access-date=2021-06-11|website=Forbes|language=en}} The two-hour event was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and streamed live on the Laugh Out Loud network and its YouTube channel.{{Cite web|last=Miller|first=Hawken|title=MDA Telethon Returning, Going Virtual With Host Kevin Hart|date=20 October 2020 |url=https://musculardystrophynews.com/2020/10/20/mda-telethon-going-virtual-with-host-kevin-hart/|access-date=2021-06-11|language=en-US}} Celebrity guests for the 2020 telethon included Jack Black, Josh Gad, Michael B. Jordan, and Jillian Mercado.{{Cite web|last=Clolery|first=Paul|title=MDA Getting Back In The Telethon Game|url=https://www.thenonprofittimes.com/fundraising/mda-getting-back-in-telethon-game/|access-date=2021-06-11|website=The NonProfit Times|language=en}}

In November 2020, MDA launched a tool, called the neuroMuscular ObserVational Research (MOVR) Visualization and Reporting Platform (VRP), to help make clinical data more accessible and accelerate the discovery of muscular dystrophy treatments.{{Cite web|last=Ray|first=Dr. Forest|title=MDA Launches Tool to Make Clinical Data More Accessible to Researchers|date=12 November 2020 |url=https://musculardystrophynews.com/2020/11/12/mda-launches-tool-to-make-clinical-data-more-accessible-to-researchers/|access-date=2021-04-23|language=en-US}}

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, MDA converted several of its traditional programs to virtual formats and introduced new virtual programming. The latter included several Facebook Live events discussing challenges that the pandemic placed on people with disabilities.{{cite web |last1=Wexler |first1=Marisa |title=MDA Hosting Online Q&A on COVID-19 Today |url=https://alsnewstoday.com/news-posts/2020/04/02/mda-hosting-online-qa-on-covid-19-today/ |website=ALS News Today |date=2 April 2020 |access-date=29 September 2021}}{{cite web |last1=Wexler |first1=Marisa |title=MD Advocates Offer Advice for Students With Neuromuscular Disorders Amid COVID-19 |url=https://musculardystrophynews.com/2020/08/06/advocates-offer-advice-communication-self-care-important-students-neuromuscular-disorders-covid-19/ |website=Muscular Distrophy |date=6 August 2020 |access-date=29 September 2021}} It also provided COVID-19 resources and recommendations for neuromuscular patients and providers via its online resource center.{{cite web |last1=Meglio |first1=Marco |title=Apic Bio plans to initiate a phase 1/2 clinical trial in late 2021 or early 2022 as a multi-center, 3-part study to evaluate APB-102 in patients with SOD1-ALS mutations. |url=https://www.neurologylive.com/view/fda-clears-ind-application-sod1-als-gene-therapy |website=Neurology Live |date=29 April 2021 |access-date=29 September 2021}} Throughout stay at home orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MDA shared a "joke of the day" from National Ambassador Ethan Lybrand via their social media channels.{{cite web |last1=Waterfiled |first1=Sophia |title=Fifth-Grader Tells a Joke a Day to Keep Americans Laughing During Coronavirus Pandemic |url=https://www.newsweek.com/fifth-grader-tells-joke-day-keep-americans-laughing-during-coronavirus-pandemic-1499992 |website=Newsweek |date=24 April 2020 |access-date=29 September 2021}}

In January 2021, MDA announced NFL running back Nyheim Hines as its national spokesperson.{{Cite web|last=Tannebaum|first=Taylor|title=Colts RB Nyheim Hines named national spokesperson for MDA|url=https://www.wthr.com/article/sports/colts-rb-nyheim-hines-named-national-spokesperson-for-mda/531-c26d02f9-8a29-49f0-aa4d-df3a2bad8424|access-date=2021-07-07|website=wthr.com|date=11 February 2021|language=en-US}}

The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) was established to lead research and support for individuals affected by muscular dystrophy and related diseases.

In a recent [interview](https://denver-frederick.com/2024/01/12/the-muscular-dystrophy-association-reimagined-a-chat-with-mdas-dr-donald-wood/) with Denver Frederick, Dr. Donald Wood, the current CEO of MDA, discussed the organization's founding legacy and its evolving role in reimagining support and research for the muscular dystrophy community. Dr. Wood highlighted MDA's commitment to continuing the vision of its founders through expanded programs and initiatives.

Research!America Advocacy Award (2025){{cite web |url=https://www.researchamerica.org/press-releases-statements/researchamerica-advocacy-awards-to-recognize-nations-outstanding-leaders-for-medical-and-health-research/ |title=Research!America Advocacy Awards to Recognize Nation's Outstanding Leaders for Medical and Health Research |website=Research!America |date=2025 |access-date=2024-11-07}}

In 2025, MDA received the Research!America Advocacy Award in recognition of its work in research and advocacy for neuromuscular diseases.

• **Paul G. Rogers Distinguished Organization Advocacy Award - Research!America Advocacy Awards (2025)**

MDA received this prestigious award for its advocacy and leadership in neuromuscular disease research and care.{{Cite web |date=2024-10-15 |title=Research!America Advocacy Awards to Recognize Nation’s Outstanding Leaders for Medical and Health Research |url=https://www.researchamerica.org/press-releases-statements/researchamerica-advocacy-awards-to-recognize-nations-outstanding-leaders-for-medical-and-health-research/ |access-date=2025-01-30 |website=Research!America |language=en-US}}

• **The Patient Advocacy Award (Non-profit) - Advanced Therapies Awards (2024)**

Awarded to MDA's Gene Therapy Support Network for its contributions to advancing gene therapy initiatives.{{Cite web |title=Winners – advancedtherapiesawards |url=https://advancedtherapiesawards.phacilitate.com/winners/ |access-date=2025-01-30 |language=en-US}}

• **Print Publication Finalist - PR Daily Awards (2024)**

Recognized for MDA’s publication, *Quest Media Print*, showcasing efforts in communicating with patients and families.{{Cite web |last=Minnick |first=Jon |date=2024-10-03 |title=PR Daily Awards and Top Agencies finalists and honorees announced: See the full list |url=https://www.prdaily.com/pr-daily-awards-and-top-agencies-finalists-and-honorees-announced-see-the-full-list/#Print%20Publication |access-date=2025-01-30 |website=PR Daily}}

• **Sonia Skarlatos Public Service Award – American Society of Gene + Cell Therapy**

Awarded to MDA for excellence in public service within the scientific community.{{Cite web |title=Sonia Skarlatos Public Service Award {{!}} ASGCT - American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy {{!}} ASGCT - American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy |url=https://www.asgct.org/awards/honorific-awards/sonia-skarlatos-public-service-award |access-date=2025-01-30 |website=www.asgct.org}}

• **Top 100 Marketing Teams - OnConference (2024)**

Acknowledging MDA’s Marketing and Communications team for their innovative strategies.[OnConference 2024](https://www.onconferences.com/24-coo-winners)

• **Drive Purpose Campaign - PR Daily Content Marketing Awards (2024)**

For the #AccessibleAirTravel campaign that advocates for accessibility in air travel.[PR Daily Content Marketing Awards 2024](https://www.prdaily.com/congratulations-to-the-winners-of-pr-dailys-social-media-digital-content-marketing-awards/)

• **Call to Action - 16th Annual Shorty Award Finalist and Audience Honor**

Recognized for the #AccessibleAirTravel campaign, promoting accessibility awareness.[Shorty Awards 16th Annual](https://shortyawards.com/16th/winners)

• **Call to Action – 9th Annual Shorty Award Finalist**

Acknowledging the impactful messaging of the #AccessibleAirTravel campaign.[Shorty Awards 9th Annual](https://shortyawards.com/9th-impact/finalists/)

• **Federal Advocacy by a Patient Advocate or Organization - EveryLife Foundation RareVoice Awards (2023)**

Honoring MDA’s advocacy leaders Mindy Henderson and Madison Lawson for their impactful work.[EveryLife Foundation RareVoice Awards 2023](https://everylifefoundation.org/rare-advocates/rarevoice-awards-2020/rarevoice-awards-recipients/)

• **Communications Innovation Award - Public Affairs Council Innovation Awards (2024)**

Recognizing the #AccessibleAirTravel campaign for innovative communications strategies.[Public Affairs Council Innovation Awards 2024](https://pac.org/innovation-award-winners-in-communications-grassroots-and-lobbying-honored-at-the-advocacy-conference)

• **Most Valuable Philanthropist Award - Major League Baseball Players Association (2024)**

Rhys Hoskins, an MDA advocate, received this award for his philanthropic efforts.[MLB Players Choice Awards 2024](https://www.mlb.com/news/players-choice-awards-2024)

• **Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award - Major League Baseball Players Association (2024)**

Awarded to Rhys Hoskins for his advocacy on behalf of MDA.[MLB Players Choice Awards 2024](https://www.mlb.com/news/players-choice-awards-2024)

• **The Top 50 Women Chief Development Officers of 2024 – Women We Admire**

Ruth Ann Daily, MDA's Chief Development Officer, received this honor for her leadership in philanthropy.[Women We Admire 2024](https://thewomenweadmire.com/2024/09/12/the-top-50-women-chief-development-officers-of-2024/)

• **Top Women in Marketing - Ragan Team Leaders (2024)**

Morgan Roth, MDA’s Chief Marketing Officer, was recognized for her strategic contributions to marketing.[Ragan Team Leaders 2024](https://www.prdaily.com/pr-daily-announces-the-top-women-in-marketing-class-of-2024-honorees/#Team%20Leaders)

• **Top 50 Chief Operations Officer - OnConference (2024)**

Mike Kennedy, MDA’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, was honored for his operational excellence.[OnConference 2024](https://www.onconferences.com/24-coo-winners)

• **Henry Viscardi Achievement Award (2023)**

Awarded to Mindy Henderson, MDA’s Vice President of Disability Outreach & Empowerment, for her contributions to advocacy.[The Viscardi Center 2023](https://viscardicenter.org/2023-henry-viscardi-achievement-awards-recipients-announced/#:~:text=The%202023%20Henry%20Viscardi%20Achievement,%E2%80%9D%20Zografopoulos%2C%20Z%20Life%2C%20U.S.)

• **Marcoms Most Influential List - The PRNet (2023)**

Mary Fiance, MDA’s Vice President of Strategic Communications, was recognized for her influence in communications.[The PRNet 2023](https://theprnet.com/journals/the-pr-net-mmi-awards)

MDA has a tradition of selecting National Ambassadors who are people living with neuromuscular disease.{{Cite web|title=Ira Walker, living with SMA type 2, named MDA National Ambassador|url=https://smanewstoday.com/news/ira-walker-living-sma-type-2-named-mda-national-ambassador/|website=smanewstoday.com|date=12 January 2024 |access-date=2024-05-31}} Since the program's inception in 1952, over 45 National Ambassadors have shared their experiences to emphasize the need for funding research and developing treatments and cures for neuromuscular diseases.{{Cite web|title=Meet Reagan Imhoff, National Goodwill Ambassador for MDA|url=https://medium.com/@cmoyer/meet-reagan-imhoff-national-goodwill-ambassador-for-mda-ad4cd22c7639|website=Medium|date=16 February 2017 |access-date=2023-08-18}}{{Cite web|title=Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces 2023 National Ambassador Leah Zelaya from New York|url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/muscular-dystrophy-association-announces-2023-150000632.html|website=Yahoo Finance|date=23 January 2023 |access-date=2023-08-18}} These representatives engage with partners, volunteers, supporters, and notable figures, gaining exposure through social media channels and national media outlets. Former youth ambassadors have pursued diverse fields in adulthood, advocating for improvements in accessibility, early intervention treatments through newborn screening, and advancements in research and care for MDA families and individuals living with disabilities. MDA's National Ambassadors were formerly known as "National Goodwill Ambassadors", which, until the 1980s, were referred to as "poster children". In 1952, the MDA inaugurated Michael Danna as its first Poster Child.{{Cite web|title=MDA National Ambassadors Share the Everyday Impact of Neuromuscular Disease|url=https://www.mobilityworks.com/blog/mda-national-ambassadors-share-the-everyday-impact-of-neuromuscular-disease/|website=Mobility Works|date=6 February 2020 |access-date=2023-08-18}}

One of the most well-known ambassadors was Mattie Stepanek, the National Goodwill Ambassador from 2002 until his death in 2004, notable for his best-selling Heartsongs series of poetry books, and his appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show and Good Morning America.{{Cite web|title=Matthew 'Mattie' Stepanek, 13; Poet, Peacemaker|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2004-jun-24-me-mattie24-story.html|website=Los Angeles Times|date=24 June 2004 |access-date=2023-08-18}} Another notable ambassador is Ethan LyBrand, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy and gained national recognition for his Shorty Award-winning "Joke-A-Day for MDA" campaign during the COVID-19 pandemic.{{Cite web|title=Decatur youth featured in ad debuting during Oscars|url=https://www.al.com/news/2021/04/decatur-youth-to-be-featured-in-ad-debuted-during-oscars.html|website=AL.com|date=25 April 2021 |access-date=2023-08-18}}

In 1986, MDA-funded researcher Louis M. Kunkel identified the dystrophin gene, the gene for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD).{{Cite web|last=Weidman Burke|first=Chelsea|title=The Time for DMD Gene Therapy is Now: A Chat with the MDA|url=https://www.biospace.com/article/the-time-for-dmd-gene-therapy-is-now-a-chat-with-the-mda/|access-date=2021-07-07|website=BioSpace|language=en-US}} MDA funded the first gene therapy trial in 1999, followed by the first vector-based gene therapy trial for DMD in 2006.{{Cite book|last=Agencies|first=United States Congress Senate Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fi5JhCJsxC0C&dq=MDA+funded+the+first+gene+therapy+trial+in+1999&pg=PA18|title=Muscular Dystrophy: Hearing Before a Subcommittee of the Committee on Appropriations, United States Senate, One Hundred Seventh Congress, First Session, Special Hearing, February 27, 2001, Washington, DC.|date=2001|publisher=U.S. Government Printing Office|isbn=978-0-16-065977-5|language=en}}

In 2007, MDA funded Adrian R. Krainer and his colleagues at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in Laurel Hollow, New York for the early-stage development of nusinersen. Nusinersen became FDA approved in 2016 as the first treatment for spinal muscular dystrophy (SMA).{{Cite journal|last=Neurology|first=The Lancet|date=2020-03-01|title=Leading the way for neuromuscular disorders since 1950|journal=The Lancet Neurology|language=English|volume=19|issue=3|pages=195|doi=10.1016/S1474-4422(20)30027-2|issn=1474-4422|pmid=32085828|doi-access=free}}

As of 2018, MDA had a total funding commitment of more than $58 million distributed among 312 research grants.{{cite web |last1=Luxner |first1=Larry |title=MDA Conference Bringing Neuromuscular Disease Experts to Orlando to Share 'New Era' in Treatment, Research |url=https://charcot-marie-toothnews.com/2019/04/04/mda-conference-bringing-neuromuscular-disease-experts-to-orlando-to-share-new-era-in-treatment-research/ |website=CHarcot-Marie-Tooth News |date=4 April 2019 |access-date=29 September 2021}} By 2019, MDA supported 252 research projects worldwide, totaling a funding commitment of more than $66 million.{{cite journal |title=Leading the way for neuromuscular disorders since 1950 |journal=The Lancet Neurology |year=2020 |pmid=32085828 |author1=The Lancet Neurology |volume=19 |issue=3 |page=195 |doi=10.1016/S1474-4422(20)30027-2 |doi-access=free }}

MDA is actively involved in supporting the development of gene therapies for rare neuromuscular diseases. In 2023, the association introduced the Kickstart Program to lower the barriers to gene therapy development. The program assembles a team of experts to collaboratively assist selected projects, positioning them for follow-on grant funding. The Kickstart Program was presented at the 2023 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference, where discussions focused on opportunities to de-risk gene therapies, current barriers to development, collaborative frameworks, and data management.

MDA supported the FDA's decision in 2023 to approve an experimental gene therapy developed by Sarepta Therapeutics that aims to slow the progression of Duchenne muscular dystrophy by facilitating the production of a protein called micro-dystrophin in patients' muscles.{{Cite magazine|title=FDA Approves First Gene Therapy for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy|url=https://time.com/6289317/fda-approves-first-gene-therapy-for-duchenne-muscular-dystrophy/|magazine=Time|access-date=2023-08-18}} Advancements in Duchenne muscular dystrophy treatment have prompted MDA to lobby for newborn screening panels for early detection and treatment initiation.{{Cite web|title=UPDATE ON PPMD'S NEWBORN SCREENING EFFORTS|url=https://www.parentprojectmd.org/update-on-ppmds-newborn-screening-efforts/|website=Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy|date=31 May 2023 |access-date=2023-08-18}}

File:Fire Fighters raising money for Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinton Michigan.JPG]]

During National Boot Day, the MDA partners with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) to launch Fill the Boot fundraising events. These events help support research, care, and advocacy for families affected by muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases in the United States. The partnership between MDA and IAFF dates back to 1954, with IAFF designating MDA as its charity of choice. Firefighters across the country have raised $690 million over nearly seven decades, leading to breakthroughs in research, FDA-approved treatments, and advocacy efforts such as access to care and newborn screening.{{Cite web|title=2022 IAFF Impact Report|url=https://www.mda.org/sites/default/files/mda-frontend/ff/iaff/2022/2022-IAFF-Impact-Report.pdf|website=MDA.org|access-date=2023-08-18}}

MDA's annual payments to IAFF, which ranged from $980,000 to $1.4 million between 2015 and 2020 according to U.S. Department of Labor filings, received some scrutiny for their size relative to the charity's expenditures.{{Cite web |last=Fitch |first=Marc E. |date=2020-10-19 |title=The Fitch Files: Why is the International Association of Fire Fighters getting millions from a charity? |url=https://yankeeinstitute.org/2020/10/19/the-fitch-files-why-is-the-international-association-of-fire-fighters-getting-millions-from-a-charity/ |access-date=2024-03-09 |website=Yankee Institute |language=en-US}}

{{Main|The Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon}}

Debuting in 1966 and held annually on Labor Day weekend until 2014, the telethon was originally hosted by veteran film star, comedian and singer Jerry Lewis, who also served as the MDA's national chairman since its inception in 1950 and hosted the show until 2010. In 2005, the MDA made the unprecedented decision to pledge $1 million of the telethon's money raised to Hurricane Katrina disaster relief, making the donation specifically to the Salvation Army (though the telethon also urged viewers to give to the American Red Cross). In 2008, the annual televised fundraiser raised a record $65,031,393. File:Official MDA Logo.png Originally broadcast for up to 21½ hours from 1966 to 2010, the event was cut back to six hours in 2011.[http://quest.mda.org/news/mda-labor-day-telethon-moves-shorter-format MDA: "MDA Labor Day Telethon Moves to Shorter Format", October 6, 2010.] The 2011 edition of the telethon was originally announced to have been Lewis' last as host, with him continuing his role as national chairman;[https://web.archive.org/web/20110519210742/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2011/05/16/jerry-lewis-announces-his-final-mda-telethon-appearance/92835/ MDA press release, via Zap2it: "You'll Never Walk Alone: Jerry Lewis To Make His Final Telethon Appearance", May 16, 2011.] however, on August 3, 2011, the MDA announced that Lewis resigned as host and chairman, due to circumstances not revealed.[http://www.mda.org/news/110803.html MDA: "Jerry Lewis Completes Run as MDA National Chairman", August 3, 2011.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110804203900/http://www.mda.org/news/110803.html |date=August 4, 2011 }} However, in 2016, one year before his death, Lewis broke a five-year silence in a video endorsing MDA's redesigned web site and brand, declaring that the work to end muscular dystrophy be continued.

Additionally, Lewis' support was so ironclad over the years that children and adults assisted by MDA are referred to as Jerry's Kids. From 2012 to 2014, the show was known as the MDA Show of Strength. In early 2015, the organization announced it was discontinuing the show.{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/people/2015/05/01/muscular-dystrophy-association-ends-labor-day-television-telethon/26709717/|title=MDA ends Jerry Lewis Labor Day telethon|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2017-10-29|language=en}}

On September 9, 2020, MDA executives announced plans to relaunch their annual MDA telethon with a new host, comedian Kevin Hart.{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2020/10/kevin-hart-host-muscular-dystrophy-association-telethon-relaunch-jerry-lewis-1234573504/|title=Kevin Hart's Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon Relaunch Adds to Lineup; Will Stream on LOL Network – Update|date=8 October 2020}} Entitled The MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon, the new two-hour telethon was seen exclusively through participating social media platforms; the event was broadcast October 24, 2020, at 8 p.m. EDT.[https://www.mda.org/press-releases/the-mda-kevin-hart-kids-telethon-2020 MDA Press Release: "Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces Relaunch of Iconic Telethon Hosted by Actor & Comedian Kevin Hart"] The special was a dual-charity event, with proceeds going towards both MDA and "Help From The Hart", an organization founded by the aforementioned new host of the program. Hart's charity announced that it will use its portion of funds raised to "support education, health, and social needs programs targeting underserved communities and servicing youth through education scholarships."{{Cite web|url=https://chicago.suntimes.com/entertainment-and-culture/2020/9/9/21429307/kevin-hart-hosting-mda-telethon-replacing-jerry-lewis-muscular-dystrophy|title = Kevin Hart to helm famed MDA telethon hosted for decades by Jerry Lewis|date = 9 September 2020}} The telethon was accompanied by a 10-hour Let's Play livestream, called Let's Play For A Cure, which featured DJ and producer Zedd, gaming personality missharvey and esports athletes.{{Cite web|last=Miller|first=Hawken|title=MDA Telethon Returning, Going Virtual With Host Kevin Hart|date=20 October 2020 |url=https://musculardystrophynews.com/2020/10/20/mda-telethon-going-virtual-with-host-kevin-hart/|access-date=2021-07-07|language=en-US}} The live stream was part of a week-long "streamathon", which featured esports stars playing games including League of Legends, Rocket League, Fortnite, Call of Duty and Fall Guys.{{Cite web|last=Takahashi|first=Dean|date=2020-09-29|title=Muscular Dystrophy Association's Let's Play For A Cure targets gamers|url=https://venturebeat.com/2020/09/29/muscular-dystrophy-associations-lets-play-for-a-cure-targets-gamers/|access-date=2021-07-07|website=VentureBeat|language=en-US}}

Following the Kevin Hart Kids Telethon was MDA's 70th Anniversary Show, hosted by entertainment TV journalists Nancy O'Dell and Jann Carl.

The MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference is a prominent event that gathers over 2,000 professionals, including scientists and clinicians, specializing in neuromuscular diseases. The conference showcases research, fosters collaborations, and promotes the latest advancements in the field. It covers various aspects of research, from pre-clinical to clinical, and supports the development of improved care and treatment for the neuromuscular community. The conference also hosts the Annual Insights in Research Investment Summit, which focuses on research and investment stakeholders in neuromuscular diseases. The 2023 conference featured a keynote address by Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, on the growing impact of gene therapies in treating rare disorders.{{Cite web|title=Top FDA Official Touts 'Promise of Gene Therapy' at MDA Annual Conference|url=https://www.rarediseaseadvisor.com/conferences/mda-2023/top-fda-official-touts-promise-gene-therapy-mda-annual-conference/|website=Rare Disease Advisor|date=21 March 2023 |access-date=2023-08-18}}

MDA publishes a quarterly magazine, Quest, catering to people with neuromuscular diseases and their caretakers. Mindy Henderson, diagnosed with type 2 spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and a patient advocate, is the editor-in-chief as of 2023. The magazine, with a circulation of around 100,000, extends its reach through distribution at neurologists' offices and the MDA's network of 150 care centers across the country. Besides focusing on science and research, Quest's coverage includes adaptive lifestyles, travel, medical equipment, accessible fashion, employment, and media representation.{{Cite web|title=SMA Patient and Advocate Mindy Henderson Educates Others as Editor of MDA Magazine|url=https://www.rarediseaseadvisor.com/features/sma-patient-advocate-mindy-henderson-educates-editor-mda-magazine/|website=Rare Disease Advisor|access-date=2023-08-18}}

Every summer, for one week, thousands of children from across the country who have been diagnosed with neuromuscular diseases are able to attend a camp designated for only them. MDA Summer Camp offers children and young adults the opportunity to participate in recreational activities that foster independence, self-confidence, skill development, and friendships. There is a one counselor to one camper ratio and the entire week the children, ages 8–17, are paired with an adult volunteer. They participate in activities and games and stay overnight.{{Cite web|title=At Special Camp, 17-Year-Old With Spinal Muscular Atrophy Gets to Swim, Play Basketball and More|url=https://www.insideedition.com/at-special-camp-17-year-old-with-spinal-muscular-atrophy-gets-to-swim-play-basketball-and-more|website=Inside Edition|date=30 August 2019 |access-date=2023-08-18}} The camps are set up locally and are different weeks throughout May through August. The entire camp staff are volunteer members and are required to interview and apply with good recommendations. The camp is offered at no cost to campers and their families;{{Cite web|last=Frank|first=Grace|title=From Care Centers to Summer Camp, MDA Leads in Helping Others|date=7 February 2020 |url=https://charcot-marie-toothnews.com/2020/02/07/from-care-centers-to-research-awards-and-summer-camp-mda-leads-in-helping-others/|access-date=2021-04-23|language=en-US}} the cost of the camp for the campers and volunteers is covered by the many fundraisers the MDA does each year.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mda.org/services/mda-summer-camp|title=MDA Summer Camp|website=Muscular Dystrophy Association|date=22 December 2017}}

File:MDA Muscle Walk 2016.png

Started in 2010, the MDA Muscle Walk is an annual 1 to 3.1-mile lap event held in over 150 communities across the United States to raise money for research and patient services.{{Cite news|url=https://www.mda.org/get-involved/participate-in-an-event|title=Participate in an Event {{!}} Muscular Dystrophy Association|date=2015-12-17|work=Muscular Dystrophy Association|access-date=2017-10-29|language=en}} In 2022, MDA resumed in-person Muscle Walks in numerous locations, including Phoenix, Chicago, St. Louis, Detroit, Boston, Twin Cities, Houston, and Dallas, while continuing to offer a virtual Muscle Walk option to enhance participation flexibility.{{Cite web|title=The Muscle Walk Comes to Detroit in August|url=https://www.hourdetroit.com/philanthropy-charity/the-muscle-walk-comes-to-detroit-in-august/|website=Hour Detroit|date=16 March 2022 |access-date=2023-08-18}}{{Cite web|title=Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces 2022 Muscle Walks in Local Communities Nationwide to Empower Families Living with Muscular Dystrophy, ALS, and Related Neuromuscular Disease|url=https://www.mda.org/press-releases/mda-announces-2022-muscle-walks-in-local-communities-nationwide-to-empower-families-living-with-muscular-dystrophy-als-and-related-neuromuscular-disease|website=MDA.org|date=11 March 2022 |access-date=2023-08-18}}

Throughout February and March, retailers across the US contributed to the MDA Shamrocks campaign, the largest St. Patrick's Day fundraising initiative in the country. They provide customers with the opportunity to either round up their purchases or donate a specific amount, such as $1, $3, or $5. Customers can write their names on paper shamrocks, which are then displayed in stores to show support for MDA's mission to empower people with neuromuscular diseases to lead longer, more independent lives.{{Cite web|title=MDA Shamrocks fundraising campaign takes the field for 2023|date=21 February 2023 |url=https://musculardystrophynews.com/news/mda-shamrock-fundraising-campaign-2023/|access-date=2023-08-18}}

MDA's Care Center Network is recognized as the largest network of multidisciplinary clinics specializing in neuromuscular diseases in the United States, with over 150 clinics distributed throughout the country. In addition to offering specialized care, these centers are also active sites of research.{{Cite web|title=Dollars to help strengthen communities|url=https://www.capitalpress.com/sponsored/dollars-to-help-strengthen-communities/article_1a32f8e2-342a-11eb-bada-d33e68395a3e.html|access-date=2021-04-23|website=Capital Press|date=December 2020 |language=en}}

In 2023, MDA expanded its Resource Center by launching the Gene Therapy Support Network. This network provides resources and guidance about approved gene therapies for people living with neuromuscular diseases, aiming to help the community navigate the complexities of emerging gene therapies. Clinical networking through the MDA Care Center Network contributes additional support by facilitating best practice sharing between different care centers.{{Cite web|title=MDA creates Gene Therapy Support Network|url=https://musculardystrophynews.com/news/mda-creates-gene-therapy-support-network/|website=Muscular Dystrophy News|date=23 May 2023 |access-date=2023-08-18}}

MDA targets a wide range of neuromuscular diseases, including muscular dystrophies, motor neuron diseases, ion channel diseases, mitochondrial diseases, myopathies, neuromuscular junction diseases, and peripheral nerve diseases. Specific examples include Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a severe form of muscular dystrophy, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), and Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT), which impacts peripheral nerves.

MDA also addresses numerous rare disorders, such as Andersen–Tawil syndrome, Laing distal myopathy, and Walker–Warburg syndrome. Additionally, the association covers conditions like Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD), congenital muscular dystrophies (CMD), myotonic dystrophy (DM), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and myasthenia gravis (MG).{{Cite web|url=https://www.mda.org/disease/list|title=Diseases|website=Muscular Dystrophy Association|date=28 March 2018}}

MDA supported the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act of 2013 (H.R. 1281; 113th Congress), a bill that would amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize grant programs and other initiatives to promote expanded screening of newborns and children for heritable disorders.{{cite web|title=CBO - H.R. 1281|date=6 June 2014|url=http://www.cbo.gov/publication/45434|publisher=Congressional Budget Office|access-date=24 June 2014}} The MDA argued that "many of the drug therapies currently under development for MDA's community will be of most benefit if administered either pre-symptomatically or early in the progression of the disease. Thus, for some of the diseases in MDA's program, the availability of a newborn screening program at the time of treatment availability presents the best opportunity for impacting optimal and potentially lifesaving treatment outcomes."{{cite web|title=Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act (H.R. 1281/S. 1417)|url=http://mda.org/advocacy/newborn-screening-saves-lives-reauthorization-act|publisher=Muscular Dystrophy Association|access-date=24 June 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024161801/http://mda.org/advocacy/newborn-screening-saves-lives-reauthorization-act|archive-date=24 October 2013}}

MDA supported the Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Community Assistance, Research and Education Amendments of 2013 (H.R. 594; 113th Congress), a bill that would amend the Public Health Service Act to revise the muscular dystrophy research program of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).{{cite web|title=H.R. 594 - Summary|url=https://beta.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/594|publisher=United States Congress|access-date=30 July 2014}} MDA argued that "a great deal of work still needs to be done, and increased federal support is needed to ensure that researchers can continue making progress toward finding a cure."{{cite web|title=MD CARE Act Update (2014)|url=http://mda.org/advocacy/md_care_act|publisher=Muscular Dystrophy Association|access-date=31 July 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625141705/http://mda.org/advocacy/md_care_act|archive-date=25 June 2014}}

In December 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act into law. The act aimed to speed up the development and approval of therapies for ALS and other neuromuscular diseases. During the signing ceremony, President Biden acknowledged the Muscular Dystrophy Association for playing a crucial role in advocating for the legislation.{{Cite web|title=Remarks by President Biden at Signing of H.R. 3537, the "Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act"|url=https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2021/12/23/remarks-by-president-biden-at-signing-of-h-r-3537-the-accelerating-access-to-critical-therapies-for-als-act/|website=White House|date=23 December 2021 |access-date=2023-08-18}}

In May 2024, MDA supported the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through a $105 billion bill passed by Congress. The legislation includes improvements in air travel accessibility for people with disabilities, representing significant progress in this area.{{cite web|title=Congress passed its air travel overhaul. Here’s what that means for WA|url=https://www.seattletimes.com/business/congress-passed-its-air-travel-overhaul-heres-what-that-means-for-wa/|website=The Seattle Times|date=15 May 2024|access-date=2024-07-18}}

MDA is recognized by the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance as an accredited charity that meets all 20 Standards for Charity Accountability. As of the year ending December 31, 2022, MDA reported significant funding directed towards patient and community services, professional public health education, and research. The organization's financial activities, leadership compensation, and fundraising methods are transparently disclosed, emphasizing their commitment to accountability and ethical practices.{{Cite web|title=Muscular Dystrophy Association charity review & reports by Give.org|url=https://give.org/charity-reviews/national/health/muscular-dystrophy-association-in-chicago-il-40|website=Give.org|access-date=2023-08-18}}

Charity Navigator, which is the largest independent evaluator of charities, gives MDA two out of four stars based on Financial, Accountability, and Transparency Performance Metrics.{{Cite web|title=Charity Navigator - Rating for Muscular Dystrophy Association|url=https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/131665552|website=Charity Navigator|access-date=2023-08-18}} In 2019, CharityWatch gave MDA a grade of D, citing many financial issues in the organization.{{cite web | url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/kevin-hart-aims-to-reboot-the-mda-telethon-and-his-hosting-career-4077583/ | title=Kevin Hart Aims to Reboot the MDA Telethon (And His Hosting Career) | website=The Hollywood Reporter | date=16 October 2020 }}

MDA has received the Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, recognizing its commitment to transparency and accountability.{{Cite web|title=Muscular Dystrophy Association|url=https://www.guidestar.org/profile/13-1665552|website=GuideStar|access-date=2024-07-18}}

{{Further|MDA Labor Day Telethon#Criticism}}

MDA and Lewis have been criticized by disability rights activists for their tendency to paint disabled people as, these advocates say, "pitiable victims who want and need nothing more than a big charity to take care of or cure them."[http://thekidsareallright.org/ TheKidsAreAllRight documentary website] about a renegade Jerry's Kid named Mike Ervin

{{reflist|2}}

• [https://www.mda.org/ Muscular Dystrophy Association's website]
• [https://www.prmda.org/ MDA Puerto Rico website {{in lang|es}}]
• [https://www.give.org/charity-reviews/national/health/muscular-dystrophy-association-in-chicago-il-40 Wise Giving Alliance report on MDA] from the Better Business Bureau
• [https://thekidsareallright.org/ The Kids Are All Right], a documentary film critical of the MDA and Jerry Lewis

{{Muscular Dystrophy}}{{Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis}}

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Category:Organizations established in 1950

Category:Muscular dystrophy organizations

Category:1950 establishments in the United States

Category:Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Category:Non-profit organizations based in Chicago