August is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Awareness Month – a time to shine a light on this group of rare but serious genetic diseases that cause the progressive loss of skeletal muscle due to degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem. SMA leads to progressive muscle weakness, with severity ranging from mild motor impairments to life-threatening forms.

SMA doesn’t only affect children – many adults live with it too, facing daily challenges. Thanks to scientific advances and new treatments, life with SMA looks different than it did just a few years ago, but early diagnosis and community support remain crucial.

Rare neuromuscular diseases – including Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Friedreich’s Ataxia, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) – test the strength of those living with them every day.

Because of low public awareness, these conditions often go unrecognized until they’re advanced. But just one early piece of information can change everything.

That’s why we’ve joined the “Empowered for New Victories” campaign and are taking part in the Instagram challenge that celebrates strength, unity, and support! 🙌📸

How can you join?

  1. 👖Wear something blue 👗
  2. 💪 Flex biceps – a symbol of strength
  3. 📷 Take a photo and post it on Instagram
  4. 📲 Use hashtag: #EmpoweredForNewVictories
  5. 👥 Tag at least three friends to join in!

Together, we’re raising awareness, encouraging early diagnosis, and showing that no one is alone in this fight.

💙 Your photo could help someone recognize symptoms in time.

💙 Your post could lead to early treatment.

💙 Your voice strengthens the entire community.

This content was created with the financial support of the Ministry of Health. The content of this document is the sole responsibility of the Croatian Alliance for Rare Diseases and under no circumstances can it be considered as reflecting the views of the Ministry of Health.