October 26 is World Amyloidosis Day. This worldwide campaign began in 2021 and continues to bring together amyloidosis organizations to raise awareness and show support for people affected by the condition.
You can participate in World Amyloidosis Day in your local community and online. Here are some ideas for taking part in this important event.
World Amyloidosis Day draws attention to the diagnostic delays many people living with amyloidosis face. On average, it takes four years to get a diagnosis. That delay can lead to irreversible organ damage.
Because amyloidosis is rare and its symptoms can be hard to recognize, greater awareness can help people with the condition, their families, and their healthcare providers spot possible signs sooner.
Recognizing symptoms sooner can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment. Treatment can help slow disease progression, improve symptoms, and promote a better quality of life.
Awareness can also bring attention to amyloidosis research and advocacy. Events like World Amyloidosis Day can help raise money and support amyloidosis research, including clinical trials that may identify better treatment options.
Awareness is also important for building connections with others affected by amyloidosis.
Because it’s a rare condition, support isn’t always easy to find. World Amyloidosis Day connects people worldwide who understand what life with amyloidosis is like. This annual event builds a much-needed network and amyloidosis community people can tap into year-round.
The symbol for World Amyloidosis Day is an orange link. This signifies the campaign’s mission to unite families, government institutions, and healthcare providers around a common cause.
The idea is that everyone can serve as a link, helping connect people with amyloidosis (or their loved ones) to helpful information, tools, and support from others who understand the challenges of living with a rare disease.
You can find and share information about World Amyloidosis Day events on social media by using the hashtag BETHELINK. You can also check out WorldAmyloidosisDay.org to see what’s happening in different countries.
Examples of events you may find include conferences, concerts, and support meetings, many of which you can also join virtually as webinars.
World Amyloidosis Day organizers also encourage people to plan events in their local communities. Suggestions include:
Work as a team by coordinating this event with your local library, school, small businesses, community center, healthcare facility, or religious organization.
You can stay on theme by distributing orange bracelets or wearing orange clothes, socks, or hats. Be sure to upload flyers and photos of your event on WorldAmyloidosisDay.org to get the word out.
During World Amyloidosis Day, the Amyloidosis Alliance also calls on people to share their “Amylostory.” These testimonies highlight the unique experiences of people with the disease and their caregivers.
You can recognize World Amyloidosis Day by sharing these published videos on your social media accounts or watching them with others. You can also upload your own story to support the cause and let your voice be heard.
There’s nothing quite like a personal anecdote to fuel momentum and compassion around amyloidosis. Your story can touch the hearts and minds of people who can help change the future of amyloidosis for others.
Remember, most of the general public hasn’t heard of amyloidosis before. Your efforts to spread awareness could help someone recognize their symptoms sooner.
Raising amyloidosis awareness also encourages others to serve as better friends, advocates, or healthcare professionals for people with the condition.
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This is a good idea. Thank you whoever started this
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