AMERICAN EXPRESS TO BOOST MDA TELETHON DONATIONS

TUCSON, Ariz., Aug. 27, 2004 — American Express, a national sponsor of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, will help raise funds for MDA's programs during the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon on Labor Day weekend.

For the seventh consecutive year, American Express will donate $5 to MDA's battle against neuromuscular diseases every time a Cardmember uses the American Express Card to make a Telethon contribution. The additional contribution isn't tax deductible for Cardmembers.

"We are gratified to fulfill our core value of being a good corporate citizen by continuing our involvement with the Muscular Dystrophy Association," said Bill Glenn, president, Establishment Services North America at American Express. "By adding to our Cardmembers' generous donations, we're gladly supporting MDA's lifesaving research and services programs."

The MDA Telethon will be broadcast beginning at 9 p.m. EDT Sept. 5, originating from Hollywood, California and carried by some 200 "Love Network" stations nationwide. The 211/2-hour show - a live extravaganza of spectacular entertainment, combined with information about neuromuscular diseases - can also be seen on MDA's Web site at www.mda.org thanks to RealNetworks.

Viewers may use their American Express Cards to make secure Telethon donations at the MDA Web site or by calling phone numbers provided during the broadcast.

American Express Company is a diversified worldwide travel, network and financial services provider founded in 1850. It's a leader in charge and credit cards, Travelers Cheques, travel, financial planning, investment products, insurance and international banking. For more information, visit www.americanexpress.com.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases, including muscular dystrophy, Lou Gehrig's disease, spinal muscular atrophy and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.