MDA

A cause very dear to the hearts of our Robotics team members is the fight against Muscular Dystrophy, which has afflicted the life of one of our members. Inspired to learn more and make a difference, our team has been fundraising and spreading the word. This past June, we organized a Spare Change Drive to raise money for The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). It was very successful and helped to raise over $1200 for the cause. In September, our team was invited to participate in the Jerry Lewis Telethon for MDA, further aiding to fund necessary research. We were honored with such an opportunity and were very pleased with the support we received. Moreover, our goal to spread the word and raise money has been furthered by the creation of an online support group, set up by member Adam Phillips through facebook.com. Thanks to our team as well as recruits from all over the world, the group has grown to include over 6,500 members! This year, we plan to spread the word in other ways and raise more money for MDA. We are very excited to continue our involvement and hope we will inspire many others to join our cause.

In conjunction with our ongoing efforts to help cure Muscular Dystrophy, this year Team 1515 and the BHHS Service learning class will be participating in the 20th annual "Shamrocks Against Dystrophy Drive". According to www.mdausa.org, "participants will help 'paint the town green' in time for St. Patrick's Day and help the Muscular Dystrophy Association in so doing." Maureen McGovern, whose niece suffers from dermatomysitis, is the head spokesperson for "Shamrocks Against Dystrophy". Many have suffered from this life threatening disease. Team 1515 and the service learning class are dedicated to raise money this year to help find a cure. During the month of February, find any Robotics Team Member or a Service learning student to buy a shamrock for either $1 or $5. The money will go towards finding a cure and setting up summer camps and clinics for the families of those suffering from Muscular Dystrophy.