Mary Chapman, features writer —

If your child has a disease as rare as aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, you might want to be involved with health advocacy efforts, which generally promote health and access to care. Here is some information about advocacy work, and the ways in which you might participate. What is…

Scores of virtual events are afoot around the world to mark Rare Disease Day 2021 on Feb. 28. The activities are focused on heightening awareness about rare diseases and the hundreds of millions of individuals they are thought to affect. Patients, caregivers, and advocates worldwide will sport denim ribbons…

While progress was made last year on newborn screening and other policy issues critical to rare disease patients, a “State Report Card” argues that many concerns — notably out-of-pocket costs for prescription medicines and access to affordable comprehensive care — still need attention. Those were the findings of the…

Caring for a loved one with a rare disease, especially during these uncertain times, demands significant time, attention, patience, and dedication. To help meet that need, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)’s Rare Caregiver Respite Program may be a helpful resource. The program seeks to give a…

Butterflies, ballerinas, and abstract flowers are featured among the winning artwork of this year’s Rare Artist contest, hosted by the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases to heighten awareness about rare disease communities and salute the creativity of its members. Awardees will be able to display their art and…

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is seeking individuals willing to share real-life experiences with rare diseases to speak at its upcoming virtual Living Rare, Living Stronger NORD Patient and Family Forum. The interactive, patient-focused forum will be held online June 26-27. The deadline to apply for…

The annual EURORDIS Photo Award contest is inviting people worldwide to visually express what life is like with a rare disease, while raising awareness through their work of these disorders. Submissions for next year’s awards are open until Jan. 31. The competition is organized by France-based EURODIS, an alliance…

To empower and equip members of the rare disease community to engage state leaders in matters of importance to patients and their families, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has launched an initiative across the U.S. Its goal is to establish a Rare Disease Advisory Council (RDAC)…

Providing constant care and supervision to a child who has a chronic disease such as aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency can be mentally, physically, and emotionally draining. Respite care may be beneficial for you, your child, and your family. What is AADC deficiency? AADC deficiency is a rare…

Aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency can cause sudden cardiac issues, oculogyric crises, and problems with breathing and blood pressure, among other symptoms. Physicians may not be familiar enough with AADC to respond adequately in such situations. That’s why medical alert cards are very important.