 |
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
We are deeply grateful for your continued support.
2026 marks a milestone year for DMRF Canada as we reflect on 50 years of impact, progress, and community building. Building on the momentum of a remarkable 2025, we’re moving forward with renewed energy, launching new research projects, enhancing support and education offerings, planning engaging events, and creating even more opportunities to bring our community together. Thanks to our volunteers, donors, and partners, last year we strengthened connections across Canada, expanded awareness of dystonia, and responded to a growing need for information and support. Thank you for being part of this journey. As we step into this historic year together, we remain dystonia strong. Stay tuned, there’s much more ahead in 2026. Watch for future newsletters and announcements from DMRF Canada as we share new meetings, events, and opportunities to connect. |
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
Table of Contents
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
 | ||||||
Living with dystonia comes with challenges, but it can also be easier with the right support. DMRF Canada offers support groups to help you connect with others who understand, share experiences, and find encouragement along the way. We also maintain a list of dystonia treaters on our website to help you find knowledgeable healthcare professionals in your area. | ||||||
 |
||||||
| Jess’s journey with generalized dystonia began in childhood and brought immense challenges, from years of unexplained symptoms to a life-changing Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery that helped her regain mobility and independence. Now living in Canada, she has built a family, pursued her passion for pastry, and created a life full of purpose and joy. Jess's full experience is now on our website so that others can learn about her recovery and experience. Click here to learn more about Jess’s inspiring story in the DBS section. Jess is also our DBS Peer Contact. Available to speak with those navigating the decision-making process or post-operative life. To connect with Jess, please email: jessicaouilhet@gmail.com | ||||||
 | ||||||
In 2026, dystonia advocate and DMRF Canada Board Member Casey Kidson-Reid will mark a banner year. She will compete in her first HYROX race in Ottawa in the Adaptive Women’s Category, sharing her story to raise awareness of dystonia, and has been named a AdaptX Ambassador. Casey shows what is possible when determination meets purpose and reminds us that we can all raise awareness in our own communities. You do not have to run a marathon to make an impact. Click here to learn how you can raise awareness throughout the year. | ||||||
 |
||||||
 Join us this June for Freedom to Move: Run, Walk, and Wheel for Dystonia! Participate virtually anytime from June 1–30, 2026 or in person on June 14, 2026, at Downsview Park, Toronto. Registration opens soon, stay tuned! As our largest fundraiser and awareness event, Freedom to Move serves as a vital platform to rally support for dystonia. Help us grow our impact, spread the word, invite friends and colleagues, or connect us with potential sponsors. A partnership and sponsorship brochure is available on our website for those interested in supporting the event. | ||||||
 |
||||||
|
What better way to honour this milestone than by turning your special day into an opportunity to make a difference? Instead of gifts, invite friends and family to support DMRF Canada and help raise awareness and funds for dystonia. It’s a meaningful way to turn your celebrations into lasting impact. Getting started is easy: set up your birthday fundraiser online, share your story, and watch your community come together to support your cause. Every gift brings us closer to improving the lives of those affected by dystonia. Click here to learn more and start your birthday fundraiser today! |
||||||
 | ||||||
These funds directly support dystonia research and patient programs, including clinical and research fellowships at Toronto Western Hospital and SickKids, as well as support groups, education, and trusted resources that reduce isolation and strengthen self-advocacy. If you are in the Greater Toronto Area, consider volunteering or sharing this opportunity with your network. No experience is required. View volunteer dates here and get involved! |
||||||
 |
||||||
|
Online-Neurologic Music Therapy Weekly on Thursdays Dystonia Support & Awareness - Thompson/Okanagan - Monthly Meetings Dystonia Support & Awareness - Vancouver Island - Monthly Meetings National Virtual Support Meeting - February 28th 2026 Winnipeg Virtual Support Group Meeting - February 28th, 2026 Toronto Support Group Meeting - March 8th, 2026 Winnipeg Virtual Support Group Meeting - March 28th, 2026 National Virtual Support Meeting - May 16th, 2026 Winnipeg Virtual Support Group Meeting - May 30th, 2026 Find a full listing of currently scheduled meetings on our event page. Watch for future newsletters and announcements from DMRF Canada – we’ve got many more meetings and events in the works! Stay tuned for our 2026 list of events. |
||||||
Follow DMRF Canada on our social media platforms |
||||||
@DMRFC |
@dystonia_canada |
@Dystonia Medical Research Foundation Canada |
||||
|
|
||||||
|
Please visit our website at https://dystoniacanada.org
Donate to our cause at https://dystoniacanada.org/donateonline
Our mailing address is:
Dystonia Medical Research Foundation Canada
PO Box 1009 Stn Toronto Dom
Toronto ON M5K 1P2 Canada |
||||||
