
Phoenix Zoo is 234 yards away, 3 min walk.What are the closest stations to Phoenix Zoo?.The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing research for improved dystonia treatments and ultimately a cure, promoting awareness, and supporting the well-being of affected individuals and families. There is currently no cure, and though treatments exist there is no single therapy that benefits even a majority of patients. Conservative estimates state no fewer than 250,000 Americans are affected. Dystonia impacts people of all ages and backgrounds. Because dystonia is not better known, symptoms are often mistaken for mental illness, substance abuse, or poor social skills. Common signs include abnormal movements of the head and neck, excessive blinking, a breathy or choking voice, hand cramps, or a twisted foot. National sponsors include Ipsen and Allergan.ĭystonia is a chronic, often disabling, neurological disorder marked by excessive, involuntary muscle contractions that cause abnormal body movements and postures. Zoo Walk participants can spend the day enjoying the Zoo or just stay for the DMRF festivities. Dystonia Zoo Walks unite local families impacted by dystonia and invite the greater community to learn about dystonia and support efforts to find a cure. Louis, Cleveland, Bronx/NYC, Pittsburgh, Providence, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Toledo, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.ĭystonia Zoo Walks are not your typical charity walk. These events do not have a formal walking course, and participants don’t have to walk at all.

Upcoming Dystonia Zoo Walks are taking place in St. She was among the first group of pioneering dystonia patients to undergo deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. Dee is a US Navy Veteran who unexpectedly developed dystonia in 1997 as a result of prescribed medications. The 4th Portland Dystonia Zoo Walk was organized by Dee Linde and members of the Portland, Oregon & Southwest Washington Dystonia Support Group. DMRF Community Leadership Council Member Rosemary Young organizes the event in honor of her young son Kavin, who has generalized dystonia.

The 6th Annual Detroit Dystonia Zoo Walk took place July 14. News of federal grant funding coming from Washington, DC or news of promising research coming from the DMRF or researchers around the country is great, but it feels more hopeful when we’re doing our part here in the Twin Cities.” We’re actually part of the solution when we participate locally. “For me, the zoo walks represent a local, tangible hope for more connections, more treatments, and a cure,” says Shanna. “Every year, we meet new people who didn’t know there’s local support and we reach more people who now know what dystonia is. Cervical dystonia is among the most common types of dystonia and yet is frequently misdiagnosed due to a lack of awareness even among medical professionals. Brad developed cervical dystonia, affecting his neck, in 2008. The event was organized by Shanna and Brad Schmitt, Billy McLaughlin, and members of the Minnesota Dystonia Support Group. The 4th Twin Cities Dystonia Zoo Walk on June 22 was the first event of the year. Zoo Walks attract 5,000+ participants annually.ĭystonia Zoo Walks are organized by dedicated local volunteers, in partnership with DMRF. Proceeds support the mission of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF), which supports urgently-needed medical research toward a cure and programs for individuals and families impacted by the disorder. The purpose of these fun community events is to increase public awareness of dystonia, a little-known but surprisingly common neurological disorder. Thirteen cities across the country are hosting Dystonia Zoo Walks in 2019. Untangling Complexity of Dystonia: ReportĮverybody’s Zooing It! Thousands Attend Dystonia Zoo Walks to Find a Cure.Resources for Mental Health Professionals.What is a Movement Disorder Specialist?.
