Thanks to the enthusiasm and support of all our Rare Disease Day Partners, the event was very successful in 2009 — the first year it was observed in the U.S. Highlights included:

• More than 200 organizations, agencies, and companies signed on as Rare Disease Day Partners
• Governors of 39 states issued proclamations
• Many websites, newspapers, and other media published editorials, letters to the editor, stories, and blogs
• Companies hosted events such as “Lunch & Learns” for their employees
• Patient organizations organized networking events

We would like to thank our partners and friends who got involved in Rare Disease Day 2009 and made it a success. We learned a lot in our first year and are looking forward to spreading our message in 2010!