Since 2010, the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has produced a series of free live and archived educational presentations called the Public Webinar Series. Expert-led topics include a variety of important issues. Make time to attend a high quality educational presentation from your own home.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association Transitions Center focuses on the needs of teens and young adults with neuromuscular disease. Launched in 2011, this site offers support, information, and resources targeting this group while also raising awareness of the challenges this group will experience.

With a new slogan of MDA SHOW of STRENGTH, the 2012 MDA Telethon will again have a changed format, running on Sunday, September 2, from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET. As always, it will include performances, celebrity appearances, and feature stories those affected by neuromuscular disease.

Caregiving stress arises from the emotional and physical challenges of providing caregiving. While caregiving for family member can be rewarding, caregivers often experience stress. Managing stress will benefit the well-being of both the caregiver and the care receiver.

Maintaining self-esteem despite the physical disabilities and differences caused by neuromuscular disease can enable one to make a difference in the world.

The hobby of “letterboxing” has been growing. It involves hiking and navigational skills, with the fun of finding a “treasure” at the end of the hike. Trails can be selected by level of difficulty and wheelchair accessibility, making this a great hobby for individuals with neuromuscular disease.

Lately, I have become increasingly involved in legislative advocacy. These efforts regularly involve writing to my elected officials to raise awareness regarding issues such as research funding and legislation regarding quality of life issues for those with neuromuscular disease.

As I have dealt with my diagnosis and symptoms of neuromuscular disease over the past few years, sometimes my emotions have given way to worry or despair. When I begin to despair, one of my most useful tools is prayer, often in the form of keeping a gratitude journal.

Journaling can help you to reach greater self-awareness, process emotions, and improve your overall health and wellness. Find out about personal writing in this article.

While the benefits of personal writing have been well documented, some people find it difficult to get started. To help you, I have provided a few journaling prompts about the experience of having a neuromuscular disease to help you begin journaling.