Since 1976, DMRF has worked with the same mission: to fund dystonia research, promote awareness, and support the well-being of those affected by dystonia. What many may not realize is the close partnership between DMRF in the United States and DMRF Canada and how this relationship benefits advancements in dystonia globally.
This partnership began as one organization. Vancouver-based Samuel and Frances Belzberg started DMRF. As DMRF began its work, this initial era saw the establishment of early support networks, as well as the formalization of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Council (MSAC, previously referred to as the Scientific Advisory Board), a vital component to ensuring resources are allocated towards the most promising advancements (for more on MSAC see Part 1 of our series on the history of dystonia research support below). Formalization of MSAC was especially notable as it created the first scientific network for dystonia, expanding the reach of DMRF outside its North American home.
DMRF Canada operates as an organization providing funding, awareness, and support across Canada. DMRF in the United States maintains their own infrastructure, continuing to share the same mission, as well as serving as a point of data collection to inform researchers in other parts of the globe.
As proud Canadians, we celebrate the fact that so many achievements have come from a Canadian-founded organization. This partnership has allowed access to a larger pool of resources for both patient support and funding sources. An American partner ensures access to National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants which has provided millions for medical research and funds the Dystonia Coalition, which makes global collaboration possible.
Having limited resources in Canada has not stopped us from continuing to make our mark in dystonia science and research here. In the last 20 years, DMRF Canada has invested nearly $1.5 million into more than 150 dystonia-related Canadian programs and activities. These accomplishments are a collaborative achievement of contributions from our generous donors, the expertise of our MSAC members, the Canadian experts who have helped advise on and drive dystonia research in Canada, the efforts of our Board of Directors, and the ability of our small staff to make those dollars stretch.
Read on for a breakdown of how we have advanced our mission in the 50 yrs since the founding of the organization. We gratefully acknowledge the hard work, support, and partnerships that have resulted in significant progress.
- History of DMRF Research Support - 4 Part Series
Part 1: The History of the DMRF Medical and Scientific Advisory Council (MSAC)
Part 2: Why Does the DMRF Fund Basic Research?
Part 3: The Importance of Clinical Research in Dystonia
Part 4: Coming Soon
Thank you to DMRF for permission to adapt and publish the above-linked articles for our Canadian audience. DMRF Canada shares the mission and works in partnership with DMRF in the the United States to fund the best and most relevant dystonia research worldwide, including in Canada.
