Whether you’ve always wanted to be Wonder Woman or fancied yourself as The Phantom, now is the time to join thousands of Aussies dressing up to do good for Muscular Dystrophy Australia’s National Superhero Week, which runs 4–10 September.
This fun initiative helps raise awareness and valuable funds to find a cure for the 60 genetic diseases and conditions that fall under the Muscular Dystrophy ‘umbrella’ which cause progressive – and irreversible – muscle wastage. Funds raised also support people impacted by Muscular Dystrophy (MD).
Heroes at childcare centres, kinders, schools, workplaces and sporting clubs are encouraged to sign up to organise a fundraiser where everyone ‘capes up’ or takes on an alternate superhero mission. Using the resources available at superheroweek.org.au, sponsors and fundraisers can read books or accrue steps, or do anything to help raise funds for MD.
MDA’s founder Boris Struk said this annual fundraising event supports the organisation’s important work towards a world without Muscular Dystrophy. ‘Every dollar raised provides resources, advocacy and funding for research to help in the lives of those affected by the neuromuscular disorder,’ he said.
‘MDA looks after more than 30,000 Australians currently living with Muscular Dystrophy and their families, supporting them in their challenging journeys. Around one in every 625 children and adults in Australia live with this condition caused by mutations in genes that control the production of proteins to maintain healthy muscle tissue.
‘National Superhero Week is a fun way to shine a light on a serious condition that robs people of their mobility, their goals and dreams,’ said Mr Struk.
How to help
The sky’s the limit with how supporters can raise funds. You can dress as a superhero every day for the week or host a superhero themed event, a sausage sizzle or your own unique fundraising activity.
Join the family of Muscular Dystrophy Supporters and make a difference.
One of the many beneficiaries of MDA’s work, Lisa, said MDA has been an incredible support to her family after son Oscar’s diagnosis.
‘MDA has been a great support to our family to link us to available support services for us, as well as introducing us to other families on a similar health journey,’ she said.
‘MDA has provided education to Oscar’s school community as to how best to care for and make their practices inclusive for him and has provided funds for a world leading neuromuscular clinic at The Royal Children’s Hospital, where we have received fabulous medical care and support.’
To sign up for National Superhero Week 2023 or make a donation, go to superheroweek.org.au, where you can also find posters that you can download, print and display.
The MDA online shop has accessories, including capes, bandanas and hats. Proceeds from sales contribute to research to finding a cure to Muscular Dystrophy.
