Dr. Donald S. Wood, MDA President and CEO.

A message from Donald S. Wood, PhD, President and CEO

As we approach the end of 2023, I am reflecting with immense pride on a year marked by resilience, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to our shared mission . Each of you, alongside our dedicated families, partners, staff, and advocates, has played a crucial role in propelling the Muscular Dystrophy Association's mission forward in unprecedented ways. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, peaceful holiday season filled with meaningful moments.

Be a Light of Hope and Change Lives

Mission Statement

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases. For over 70 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of our families. 

MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives.

  • Innovations in Science

    We are accelerating the delivery of treatments and cures.

    Explore the Science
  • Innovations in Care

    We provide services that help people affected by neuromuscular disease.

    Experience the Care

The freedom to walk, to talk, to run and play. To laugh, to hug, to eat — even breathe.

Each day these freedoms are taken away from kids and adults with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases that weaken muscle strength and limit mobility. Together we can change that.

About Neuromuscular Diseases

Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved with MDA. Whether you’re looking to create a fundraiser, host a game night, volunteer at a camp, run a marathon, or advocate for the cause, the ways to get involved are endless.

Ways to Get Involved

Press Releases

Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces Seven Recipient Organizations of Advocacy Collaboration Grants
The Akari Foundation, All Wheels Up, Child Neurology Foundation, Cure CMD, Cure Rare Disease, Cure VCP Disease, and Christopher...
Muscular Dystrophy Association Launches Rare Disease Day Campaign to Raise Awareness & Support for Neuromuscular Diseases throughout February
The rare disease community collaborates to raise awareness on Rare Disease Day, February 29.
Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces Recipient of 2024 MDA Legacy Award for Achievement in Research, is Jeffrey Chamberlain, Ph.D., Leading Professor in Gene Therapy
See Recent News

Meet Our Partners

These partners are transforming lives through science and care for MDA families.

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Meet Them All

Join Us

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MDA Resource Center: We’re Here For You

Our trained specialists are here to provide one-on-one support for every part of your journey. Send a message below or call us at 1-833-ASK-MDA1 (1-833-275-6321). If you live outside the U.S., we may be able to connect you to muscular dystrophy groups in your area, but MDA programs are only available in the U.S.

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