This was the fifth annual observance of Rare Disease Day US. The growth in just a few short years has been remarkable. Thanks to your help and participation, we believe this year’s celebration was the most successful yet. Goals this year included:
- Extensive media coverage
- Increased participation on social media
- Opportunities for patients to share their stories, videos, photos, and blogs with their local media and through social media
- Joining hands with others worldwide
- Major events across the country
- In-school initiatives to provide grade-appropriate instruction on rare diseases, related careers, and the challenges of living with a rare disease
- Awareness activities organized by individuals and organizations
- Expanding the “Handprints Across America” online photo gallery
- Encouraging participants to send letters to their elected officials to educate them on the needs of patients and their families
Theme of the Day
Each year, Rare Disease Day organizers around the world agree beforehand on a slogan to express the specific message for that year. For 2013, the slogan was “Rare Disorders Without Borders” to convey the global solidarity of the rare disease community. Rare disease patients all over the world face many of the same medical, social and economic challenges. Together, in solidarity, the global rare disease community is determined to build a better world for patients. Visit the Rare Disease Day website to learn more.