Unique Conference For Neuromuscular Conditions

Unique Conference For Neuromuscular Conditions

Genetic Research and the latest Fertility options for people with genetically linked conditions are hotly debated topics these days, and will form the main focus of a unique forum for Neuromuscular Conditions, hosted this week by the Muscular Dystrophy Association of New Zealand (MDA).

It is the second conference to be organised by the MDA and will be held at the Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre in Auckland from November 3-6.

Speakers have come from around the world to talk about the latest international research and developments.

The key note speaker is Pat Furlong, director of Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) in the USA. Ms Furlong has lost both of her sons to the number 1 genetic killer of young boys, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). When she became frustrated by the lack of funding, support and research into medication of DMD, Pat founded PPMD. This foundation works to raise money for research and provide information and support to parents of boys with DMD. It has resulted in the opening of labs on UCLA and the University of Pittsburgh that deal specifically with this condition. "Our total dedication is research that will benefit this generation of boys in their lifetimes" Ms Furlong said from her home in Ohio.

Information Manager for the MDA, Denise Ganley says that the last conference held in 2001 was the first of its kind in New Zealand and a great success.

"This kind of collaboration and exchange of information is very rare. Our members and the health professionals that attend get a huge benefit out of the conference," she says. Delegates range from members of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, those affected by neuromuscular conditions, members of the medical profession and other key service providers.

The opportunity to expose the latest equipment and other relevant services has been eagerly taken up and there will be extensive Trade Exhibits on site.

-ends- Editor's Notes:

¨ The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a non-profit organisation that provides a unique service programme to people affected by over 60 Neuromuscular Conditions ¨ Muscular Dystrophy is a genetic condition which affects 1:100,000 people. It causes progressive muscle wasting and there are no cures ¨ Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy affects one in every 3,000 live male births and is the biggest genetic killer of young boys. Life expectancy is late teens to early thirties. ¨ Further information about Pat Furlong is available in the form of a full fact sheet upon request.

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