Day at Zoo Supports Dystonia Research for a Cure

TOLEDO, Ohio - July 7, 2022 - PRLog -- WHO: Kristin Cinglie is organizing Toledo Dystonia Zoo Day to promote greater awareness and unite local individuals and families affected by dystonia. Cinglie was diagnosed with dystonia in 2012 after years of misdiagnosis. A chemical engineer and lifelong athlete, she began noticing severe cramping and tightness in her leg and shoulders while training for a half marathon. Today, Kristin experiences chronic, painful muscle spasms in her neck, torso, leg, arm, and feet as well as debilitating headaches.

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.

WHAT: Toledo is one of eight cities across the country hosting a Dystonia Zoo Day in 2022, after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The purpose of this family-friendly day at the zoo is to raise awareness of dystonia and funds for medical research toward a cure. Fees are $25 for adults/$15 for children (12 and under) and include zoo admission, refreshments, and t-shirt, plus registration for DMRF's Virtual Dystonia Zoo Day Kick-off Celebration (August 18) and Virtual Dystonia Zoo Day & Closing Ceremony (October 8). Proceeds benefit the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation. Dystonia Zoo Day is not a competitive race and does not have a required walking route. National Sponsors are Allergan, an AbbVie Company; Merz Therapeutics; and Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals.

Dystonia is a disabling brain disorder characterized by excessive, involuntary muscle contractions that cause twisting, repetitive muscle movements as well as sustained, abnormal postures of the body and limbs. There are many manifestations of dystonia that impact people of all ages and backgrounds. Conservative estimates state 250,000 Americans are affected and up to 70% are misdiagnosed.

WHEN: Saturday, August 27, 2022. Registration opens at 8:00 AM. Event begins at 9:15 AM. Rain or shine.

WHERE: Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH

MEDIA: For more information and to schedule an interview, contact Jessica Feeley, Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, at contact@dystonia-foundation.org. Event details are also available at: https://dystonia-foundation.org/toledo-zoo-day . The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) can be reached at: 312-755-0198 or visit https://dystonia-foundation.org.