SHAMROCKS BATTLE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

TUCSON, Ariz., March 1, 2004 — In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, millions of Americans will participate in the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Shamrocks Against Dystrophy program. The popular MDA tradition, led by internationally renowned singer Maureen McGovern, runs from now through March 17.

Patrons of thousands of retailers nationwide, including supermarkets, convenience stores, gas stations and restaurants, are supporting the fight against neuromuscular diseases by buying and signing $1 and $5 Shamrock mobiles to hang in the business locations.

For the fourth year, McGovern, a member of MDA’s Board of Directors and a favorite performer on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, is serving as the chairperson of Shamrocks Against Dystrophy.

“I understand the importance of every dollar raised for MDA,” said McGovern, whose teen-aged niece is affected by one of the diseases in MDA’s program. “MDA’s services help improve the life of a child I love, and the Association has developed treatments that give my family hope for a cure.

“Tens of thousands of families across the country rely on MDA for its life-enhancing services and its lifesaving research,” she added.

In 2003, Shamrocks Against Dystrophy, the nation’s largest charitable campaign associated with St. Patrick’s Day, raised more than $12 million through the efforts of volunteers, participating businesses and donors.

“Shamrocks Against Dystrophy provides an enjoyable and highly visible way to support MDA’s worldwide research and its nationwide service program, including 230 clinics and 90 summer camps,” MDA President & CEO Robert Ross said.

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