Actor Max Adler is known for a variety of roles in films and TV shows such as Glee, Saugatuck Cures, and Switched at Birth. But did you know that he is also a huge advocate for those with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)? Max’s mother and grandmother were both diagnosed with FSHD, making this a deeply personal matter. For years, Max has worked with the FSHD Society to raise funds and awareness. And now he is combining his passion for acting and advocacy by joining the cast of Good Bad Things, a movie which centers on a character with FSHD.
According to the FSHD Society, Good Bad Things was written by Danny Kurtzman, a bright, sharp, and incredibly talented actor who lives with the disorder. Danny is a creative virtuoso; in addition to writing and acting in screenplays, he also co-owns Ezekiel Clothing, invested in WHILL, and has participated in a Google hackathon to put together an app-controlled wheelchair. Learn more about Danny Kurtzman and his endeavors here.
Max joined the cast of Good Bad Things after reaching out to Brett Dier. Originally, Max wanted Brett to appear in a project with him. But when Brett described Good Bad Things and what it was about – finding love, accepting oneself, and self-discovery – Max knew he had to take part.
Follow along with Max and Danny as this project moves forward – and keep up-to-date on what is happening with Good Bad Things in the future!
About Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD)
Altogether, there are nine forms of muscular dystrophy; facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy is considered to be the third most common form. DUX4 or SMCHD1 gene mutations cause FSHD. This condition is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting, often in the face, upper arms, and shoulder blades (though other areas may be affected). Typically, symptoms manifest before age 20 and can include asymmetric muscle weakness and atrophy which begins in the eyes, mouth, abdominal muscles, lower legs, upper arms, and shoulders.
To learn more about facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, check out the resources from the FSHD Society.
