In a continuing effort to support for Cure SMA, the primary non-profit funding SMA research, East and West Coast teams for Convaid and R82 worked this August to push Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) awareness.
Wearing purple — the awareness color for SMA — as part of the “push purple” campaign, as well as using the #CureSMA hashtag on social media, participants from both teams aimed to spread the campaign. Check out this video to watch Convaid and R82 in action during SMA Awareness Month 2016.
Additionally, Cure SMA also benefitted from an on-going planned giving by Convaid that will extend to the R82 brand in 2017.
By participating in fundraising and awareness-building, Convaid and R82 support Cure SMA’s research program that studies the biology and causes of SMA. This results in clinical trials that seek to find treatment and cure for SMA, investing in a diversity of approaches. Currently, the Cure SMA drug pipeline has identified four possible treatment targets along with therapeutic approaches:
- Replacement and correction of the faulty SMN1 gene.
- Modulation of the low functioning SMN2 “back-up gene.”
- Neuroprotection of the motor neurons affected by loss of the SMN protein.
- Muscle protection to prevent or restore the loss of muscle function in SMA.
Earlier this summer, Convaid and R82 attended the Cure SMA National Conference as Platinum Exhibitors where Convaid donated a Convaid Trekker lightweight, folding wheelchair as part of its planned giving.
“We are committed to bringing best-in-class products and tools to the SMA community and to expansion of our planned giving programs,” Convaid Marketing Director Nanneke Dinklo said. “We are also strong advocates for families living with SMA. Our Convaid Trekker, R82 Stingray and Convaid Carrot 3 car seat make a big difference in helping families living with SMA to go places and provide the greatest possible freedom.”