DONATE A SHAMROCK,
HELP FIGHT MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

TUCSON, Ariz., March 8, 2001 - Millions of Shamrocks Against Dystrophy participants will "share the green" in time for St. Patrick's Day and help the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Continuing an 18-year MDA tradition, patrons across the country are each donating $1 to the fight against neuromuscular diseases by buying and signing shamrock mobiles at thousands of supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, gas stations and other retailers.

The nation's largest charitable campaign associated with St. Patrick's Day, Shamrocks Against Dystrophy in 2000 raised more than $10 million through the efforts of volunteers, participating businesses and donors.

"This special campaign provides a marvelous way of supporting MDA's lifesaving research and service programs that benefit families, such as summer camps and clinics," singer/actor Maureen McGovern, national chairperson of Shamrocks Against Dystrophy, said.

McGovern, an MDA National Vice President whose niece has a neuromuscular disorder, added, "During these last few days leading up to St. Patrick's Day, I hope millions of Americans will take just a few extra minutes to buy and sign a Shamrock at stores where they do business every day. Their donations will make a tremendous difference in the lives of families in their own communities."

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research.  The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

For more information about MDA or the Shamrocks program, call (800) 572-1717 or visit www.mda.org on the Internet.