WHO IS THE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION?
The MDA is a member led New Zealand not-for-profit which advocates for and provides information and support to people affected by neuromuscular conditions. Our vision is for people with these conditions to have unrestricted opportunities to achieve their full potential.
Website: www.mda.org.nz
OUR HISTORY
We have been a part of New Zealand since 1958 when Moira Gordon, Ann Canty and Sadie McDonald, who all had family members with Muscular Dystrophy, began to meet at Sadie’s home in Auckland’s Dominion Road. In 1959 the Association became an incorporated society and over time broadened its scope to support people with other neuromuscular conditions. In 2009 the MDA celebrated its 50th birthday!
NEUROMUSCULAR CONDITIONS
The neuromuscular conditions covered by the MDA are associated with muscle weakness and wastage and can be devastating for those diagnosed and their families. The conditions can be inherited; however this is not always the case and there may be no family history of these diseases at all. Symptoms can appear just after birth or for others not until much later in life. They are unpredictable and there is no cure.
MEMBER BENEFITS
The services offered by the MDA are unique and diverse:
- Specialised information regarding neuromuscular conditions
- Fieldworker service
- Promotion and education
- Quarterly publication of the “In Touch” magazine
- Workshops and counseling for members and carers
- Promotion of participation in international clinical trials
- Advocacy and lobbying on behalf of members
- Liaison with health, disability and social welfare organisations
- Informative website with members only access
- Nationwide and local support networks
- Assistance with funding applications
- Help with equipment provision
BRANCHES OF THE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION
There are four branches of the MDA, Northern, Wellington, Canterbury and Southern Regions, which cover all areas of New Zealand. All branches are supported by the National Office.
WHO CAN BE A MEMBER AND HOW
Anyone with an interest in neuromuscular conditions can be a member, from health professionals and organisations to people with a condition and members of their families.
National Office
- 0800 800 337 or Auckland 09 815 0247
- www.mda.org.nz
- email: info@mda.org.nz
- PO Box 12063,Penrose, Auckland 1642
HOW IS THE MDA FUNDED?
The MDA is a not for profit incorporated society. Less than 6% of funding comes from the government. The MDA is dependent upon grants, sponsorship, bequests and donations from organisation and individuals.
HELP SUPPORT PEOPLE LIVING WITH NEUROMUSCULAR CONDITIONS
Without support and donations from the public we would not be able to provide our services and as the only organisation in New Zealand set up to support these rare conditions it’s vital that we continue to be there for them and their families.
- Call: 0900 426 93 to make an automatic $15 donation
- Online: Make a donation of your choosing securely online at www.mda.org.nz
- Post: PO Box 16-238 Sandringham, Auckland
