BUY A SHAMROCK, HELP FIGHT MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

TUCSON, Ariz., March 1, 2005 — Through St. Patrick’s Day, millions of Americans will “paint the town green” by participating in the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Shamrocks Against Dystrophy program. The popular MDA tradition, led by internationally renowned singer Maureen McGovern, runs through March 17.

Patrons of thousands of businesses nationwide, including supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants and other retailers, are supporting the fight against neuromuscular diseases by buying and signing $1 and $5 Shamrock mobiles to hang in the business locations.

In 2004, Shamrocks Against Dystrophy, the nation’s largest charitable campaign associated with St. Patrick’s Day, raised more than $12 million through the efforts of volunteers, participating businesses and sponsors.

For the fifth year, McGovern, a member of MDA’s Board of Directors and a favorite performer on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, is serving as the chairperson of Shamrocks Against Dystrophy.

“I understand the value of this special MDA program,” said McGovern, whose teen-age niece is affected by one of the diseases covered by the Association. “MDA has helped improve the life of someone I love, and its research gives my family -– and tens of thousands of other families -- hope for a cure.”

Funds raised through Shamrocks support MDA’s vital research and service programs, including summer camps and local clinics.

“Shamrocks Against Dystrophy provides a lighthearted, public way to support MDA’s worldwide research and its nationwide service program, including 235 clinics and 90 summer camps,” MDA President & CEO Robert Ross said.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

For more information about MDA or the Shamrocks program, call (800) 572-1717, or visit www.mda.org.