Zoo Walks Raise Awareness and Funds to Benefit Dystonia

May 4, 2015 - PRLog -- Dystance4Dystonia Zoo Walks are happening throughout the US to raise awareness and research funds for dystonia, the third most common movement disorder after essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. Teams of participants will gather for a day at the zoo in support of a local family that has been impacted by the disease.

Dystonia is a chronic, often debilitating, neurological disorder marked by extreme, involuntary muscle contractions that cause twisting, repetitive body movements and abnormal postures. There are many subtypes that impact people of all ages and backgrounds. Common signs include twisting or abnormal movements of the head and neck, excessive blinking, a breathy or choking voice, slurred speech, hand cramps, and/or a dragging foot. Treatment may include oral medications, botulinum toxin injections (“Botox”), and neurosurgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation.

Zoo Walks scheduled for 2015 include:
• June 27 - Roger Williams Zoo, Providence
• July 19 - Detroit Zoo
• August 30 -  St. Louis Zoo
• September 12 - Cincinnati Zoo
• September 19 - Cleveland Zoo
• September 19 - Binghamton Zoo, New York
• September 27 - Pittsburgh Zoo
• October 4 - Bronx Zoo

Proceeds benefit the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation. Cost to attend is typically $25 per adult and $15 for children under 11.  Fee includes all day admission to the zoo, t-shirt, and refreshments. Additional details are available at www.dystonia-foundation.org/events.

Additional DMRF events include the Stomp Out Dystonia 5K Walk, the Dystonia Meets MS Golf Tournament, the Minnesota Dystonia Golf Classic, Team DMRF at the TCS New York City Marathon, the Toss4Dystonia Cornhole Tournament, the Putnam, CT Dystance4Dystonia Walk, and others.

The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing research for improved dystonia treatments and ultimately a cure, promoting awareness, and supporting the well-being of affected individuals and families. The DMRF can be reached at 800-377-3978 or www.dystonia-foundation.org.