Author Archives: Mary Chapman

In its 13th year, the nonprofit Dravet Syndrome UK (DSUK) — which seeks to improve the lives of those affected by the epilepsy disorder — has introduced its first strategic plan for supporting patients and their families through research, awareness, and education. The five-year strategy outlines how the DSUK…

The Dravet Syndrome Foundation (DSF) is promoting awareness of the new global health statistics codes now in effect for Dravet syndrome. Known as “ICD-10” codes, the designations could bring about improved patient outcomes and scientific knowledge of this severe type of epilepsy. The DSF is encouraging those…

Rare Disease Day at NIH, organized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and taking place on March 1, will feature panel discussions, patient stories, research updates, TED-style talks, and a presentation by a Nobel laureate recently recognized for her work on a gene editing tool. The free, virtual…

If a Maryland bill called Brynleigh’s Act becomes law, the state will join five others — all of which have passed “seizure safe schools” measures — in making sure every school is equipped with the tools necessary to provide a safe learning environment for students with epilepsy. The law…

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…

International Epilepsy Day (IED), falling on Feb. 8 this year, calls attention to the needs of the roughly 50 million people globally who are affected by the brain disorder. “This is a day for everyone, no matter where you are, no matter how small your group or large your area,…

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…

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…

After some 59 years, the chief drug policy-making entity of the United Nations (UN) has voted to remove cannabis from a listing of narcotics designated as potentially addictive and dangerous, and having little to no therapeutic use. The reclassification by the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) opens the door to…