Twin Cities Dystonia Zoo Day is Back on October 2nd

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Aug. 23, 2022 - PRLog -- WHAT: St Paul is one of eight cities across the country hosting a Dystonia Zoo Day in 2022 after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Proceeds benefit the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF). The purpose of this family-friendly day at the zoo is to raise awareness of dystonia and funds for medical research toward a cure. Fees are $25 for adults/$15 for children (12 and under) and include zoo admission, refreshments, and t-shirt, plus registration for DMRF's 3rd Virtual Dystonia Zoo Day & Closing Ceremony (October 8). National Sponsors are Allergan, an AbbVie Company; Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals; and Merz Therapeutics.

Dystonia is a disabling brain disorder characterized by excessive, involuntary muscle contractions that cause twisting, repetitive muscle movements as well as sustained postures of the body and limbs. There are many manifestations of dystonia that impact people of all ages and backgrounds. Conservative estimates state 250,000 Americans are affected and up to 70% are misdiagnosed.

WHEN: Sunday, October 2, 2022. Event begins at 10:30 AM. Rain or shine.

WHERE: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Drive, St. Paul, MN

WHO: The Zoo Walk is organized by members of the Minnesota Dystonia Support Group including group leader Brad Schmitt who developed cervical dystonia, affecting his neck, in 2008. Cervical dystonia is among the most common types of dystonia and yet is frequently misdiagnosed due to a lack of awareness even among medical professionals. Schmitt has traveled to Capitol Hill to educate legislators about dystonia and advocate for federal research funding as a representative of the Dystonia Advocacy Network. Schmitt has also served on the Department of Defense (DOD)'s consumer review panel for dystonia research applications and is on the Editorial Board of the Dystonia Dialogue, newsletter of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation.

The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing research for improved dystonia treatments and ultimately a cure, promoting awareness, and supporting the well-being of affected individuals and families.

MEDIA: For more information about Dystonia Zoo Day visit https://dystonia-foundation.org/twin-cities-zoo-day . For more information on the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) call 312-755-0198 or visit https://dystonia-foundation.org.