June is myasthenia gravis awareness month!
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of any of the muscles under voluntary control. It’s caused by a breakdown in the normal communication between nerves and muscles.
Muscle weakness caused by MG worsens as the affected muscle is used. Because symptoms usually improve with rest, muscle weakness can come and go. However, the symptoms tend to progress over time, usually reaching their worst within a few years after the onset of the disease.
Myasthenia gravis currently has no cure and the symptoms are known to be progressive.
To learn more about MG, click here.
The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America
The MGFA is a tireless advocate for the MG community, and in the spirit of awareness month, they have provided a treasure trove of resources and ideas to make June work for those with MG and the rare disease community at large!
Walk the Walk…for MG
The MG Walk Campaign is to help bring awareness, renew hope, and generate a vast network of community and support, all while raising important funds for the MGFA.
In addition to fundraising, the MG Walk also allows those in the MG patient community to open up and discuss their journey in a safe and nurturing environment – many for the first time.
In four years, MG Walks have raised about $3 million, spanning to over 30 cities.
You can join an existing team, or start your own! All that’s left is to personalize your fundraising page, share your connection to MG, and tell your story of why you have joined the fight to stop MG.
Find an MG Support Group!
Are you interested in an in-person or virtual Support Group in the MG Community? The MGFA has resources and training to help you!
Their leaders and co-leaders are trained volunteers who organize and give structure to meetings that take place with those living with MG and their families. Leaders establish and run Support Groups by coordinating meeting spaces, guest speakers and local promotion. Leaders receive facilitator training, to ensure members feel welcomed, the atmosphere is friendly and that everyone has an opportunity to speak.
Click here for the MFGA’s support group calendar!
Connect with Regional MG Organizations
The MGFA is just one of many organizations that helps advocate for the MG community. Check out these regional organizations, that may be serving your own local community.
- MGANE (Myasthenia Gravis Association or New England)
- Mg-Mi (Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of Michigan)
- MGA (Myasthenia Gravis Association)
- Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of California
- mgMN (Myasthenia Gravis Minnesota)
- Conquer MG
Download the MG Toolkit for More Ways to Help
Click here to download the June Awareness Toolkit!
Whether it’s reaching out to an elected representative or stepping up your social media swagger, the MFGA’s toolkit has many resources to help you reach your June advocacy goals!
