MDA MAGAZINE WINS NATIONAL AWARD

TUCSON, Ariz., Sept. 17, 1998 -- An article about the effects of neuromuscular diseases on sex, published in the Muscular Dystrophy Association's national magazine, has received a 1998 EDI (Equality, Dignity, Independence) award from the National Easter Seals Society.

"Speaking of Sex: Common Myths About Sex and Neuromuscular Disorders," published in the June 1997 issue of Quest, is a winner in the competition's trade publication/feature or human interest category of the print journalism division.

Easter Seals presents the EDI awards each year to "recognize and honor media efforts that further public understanding of disability issues and encourage equality, dignity and independence for people with disabilities."

"We're extremely proud of this citation, which places Quest in prestigious company among major national media," said Robert Ross, MDA senior vice president and executive director. "The EDI awards are highly regarded both among journalists and in the disability community."

The article, published in June 1997, was written by MDA science-medical writer Margaret Wahl and illustrated by MDA Manager of Design Services David Saintjohn.

"This award-winning piece addressed a topic that's not often explored, especially with a focus on neuromuscular diseases," Ross said. "It helped refute misconceptions about sexuality and neuromuscular disease that might be held by the general public."

Quest, published bimonthly, has a circulation of over 100,000, including those served by MDA, their families, health-care professionals, researchers and others interested in MDA's program, Editor Bob Mackle said.

Christopher J. Rosa, a member of MDA's Board of Directors, will accept the award on Oct. 5 at the EDI Awards ceremony in New York.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, and far-reaching professional and public health education. The Association's programs are funded almost entirely by individual private contributors.

Read "Speaking of Sex: Common Myths About Sex and Neuromuscular Disorders," from the June 1997 issue of Quest. Or, read other issues of Quest, including subscription and advertising information.