Original Dystonia Zoo Day Returns to Cleveland for 9th Year
Ohio Pen/10185874

CLEVELAND - OhioPen -- WHAT: After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Karen Flanagan of North Royalton and family are organizing the 9th Cleveland Dystonia Zoo Day. Flanagan created this event with her mother Jane Ann Flanagan and aunt Gale Flanagan, and it has been replicated in cities across the country. Eight Dystonia Zoo Days are taking place in 2022, with many scheduled during Dystonia Awareness Month in September. The purpose of this family-friendly day at the zoo is to raise awareness of dystonia and funds for medical research toward a cure. Proceeds benefit the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF). Fees are $25 for adults/$15 for children (12 and under) and include zoo admission, refreshments, and t-shirt. National Sponsors are Allergan, an AbbVie Company; Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals; and Merz Therapeutics.

Dystonia is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive muscle movements and abnormal postures of the body and limbs. There are many types of dystonia that impact people of all ages and backgrounds. Conservative estimates state 250,000 Americans are affected.

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WHO: Karen Flanagan is affected by rapid-onset dystonia parkinsonism, a movement disorder characterized by an abrupt onset of uncontrollable movement symptoms that is frequently misdiagnosed due to lack of awareness. Karen's symptoms began out of the blue at age 20 with involuntary movements in a finger. The symptoms progressed to severely impair her speech, mobility, and overall activities of daily living.

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.

WHEN: Sunday, September 25, 2022. Registration opens at 8:00am. Event begins at 9:30am. Rain or shine.

WHERE: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland OH 44109 – Palava Hut

MEDIA: Contact Jessica Feeley, Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, at 912-510-0337 or contact@dystonia-foundation.org. Or visit http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/cleveland-zoo-day (http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/cleveland-zoo-day%20)