Public Information - Press Release: Freeholders hope to raise awareness of Dystonia

For Immediate Release:

May 23, 2013

Freeholders hope to raise awareness of Dystonia

Disease causes painful muscle contractions, spasms

FREEHOLD, NJ – On May 23theMonmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders presented a proclamation to commemorate Dystonia Awareness, which will be observed the week of June 2 through June 8. The Board presents the proclamation with the hope to raise public awareness of this debilitating disease. The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders present a proclamation for Dystonia awareness to Joanna Nachbar of Freehold and her parents Len and Janice on May 23.

The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders present a proclamation for Dystonia awareness to Joanna Nachbar of Freehold and her parents Len and Janice on May 23.

“Dystonia is a little-known, but surprisingly common, neurological movement disorder that causes muscles to contract or spasm painfully,” said Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone. “It can strike men, women and children with no warning, and its effects range from mildly disabling to totally crippling.”

Dystonia is estimated to be six times more prevalent than Huntington ’s disease, ALS or Muscular Dystrophy.

Some people inherit Dystonia or have it because of another disease, and while there are those who can maintain a relatively normal lifestyle, others are permanently hindered, struggling with wheelchairs, crutches or in need of full-time assistance.

The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation was formed and is working aggressively toward finding a cure and to support those who daily suffer from this devastating disorder.

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