Massachusetts Proclaims September 15 as Myotonic Dystrophy Day Following Resident Advocacy
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has officially proclaimed September 15, 2026, as Myotonic Dystrophy Day. This statewide recognition aims to raise awareness, support medical research, and provide assistance for individuals living with myotonic dystrophy (DM) and their caregivers. The proclamation, signed by Governor Maura T. Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kimberley Driscoll, and Secretary of the Commonwealth William Francis Galvin, acknowledges the severity of DM and aligns with the goals of International Myotonic Dystrophy Awareness Day. This initiative was spearheaded by Jim Dolan, a Somerville resident diagnosed with DM1 in 2022 after nearly two decades of misdiagnosis. Dolan, who facilitates the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation’s (MDF) Affected Men’s Support Group, began advocating for increased awareness in Massachusetts after connecting with the MDF community. His efforts led to broader public recognition across the state, including a resolution from the Somerville City Council, a proclamation from the Am...