Since MDA was founded more than 50 years ago, advocacy always has been the undercurrent of our programs and services. In September 2007, MDA launched a formal National Advocacy office to effectively project the voice of our MDA community, and protect the interests of the individuals and families we serve.

The program has two goals:

• be an effective voice for the hundreds of thousands of Americans served by MDA through representation in matters of public policy and research advancement; and
• encourage and facilitate active involvement of people with neuromuscular diseases in the community at large, as well as in matters of public policy that are of specific concern to those with disabilities.

These are exciting times! Medical knowledge of neuromuscular disease is broadening, and children and adults with these diseases are living longer, fuller lives. Research discoveries are leading us to promising treatments. But challenges remain, as many of our federal agencies are not receiving the funds and resources that are needed to catalyze change. And, our ever-changing neuromuscular community continues to encounter barriers to accessing necessary resources and supports. In response to rising concerns, MDA is working to accelerate research advances and treatment discovery, while expanding the resources available to those affected by neuromuscular disease.