MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and community services, and far-reaching professional and public health education. With national headquarters in Tucson, MDA has more than 200 offices across the country, sponsors 225 hospital-affiliated clinics and supports nearly 400 research projects around the world.

MDA supports more research on neuromuscular diseases than any other private-sector organization in the world. MDA scientists are in the forefront of gene therapy research and have uncovered the genetic defects responsible for several forms of muscular dystrophy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease), childhood spinal muscular atrophy, and several other neuromuscular conditions.

The Association's comprehensive service program includes medical examinations, flu shots, support groups, MDA summer camps for youngsters and assistance with purchase of wheelchairs and leg braces.

To learn more about the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the local people who they serve, thanks to the support of viewers like you, MDA USA.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association has several annual fundraisers, including The Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon, MDA Sham Rock'N Patty Party as well as the Clyde Martin Memorial Golf Tournament.

The Jerry Lewis Telethon which has raised funds and awareness for the Muscular Dystrophy Association for more than three decades is aired on KWTX-TV Labor Day of each year.

The 1st annual Sham Rock'N Patty Party is March 14th, 2009 at the Pheonix Ballroom in Waco and will feature green drinks, great food, music by Sloppy Joe, dancing, silent auction items and lots of fun to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day!

The Clyde Memorial Golf Tournament is April 6th, 2009 at the Ridgewood Country Club. All proceeds from these events provide services to local families living with neuromuscular diseases.

If you would like to attend the Sham Rock'N Patty Party of join the Clyde Memeorial Golf Tournament contact the MDA office at 254-399-8221.