What is Rare Disease Day?
Rare Disease Day is an annual global observance dedicated to raising awareness of nearly 7,000 rare diseases impacting more than 300 million people around the world.
This day gives us the opportunity to shed light on these diseases and the people affected by them. Additionally, it's a chance to raise money and awareness to support research and treatment methods.
When is Rare Disease Day?
Rare Disease Day falls on the last day of February each year. In 2024, Rare Disease Day will be Thursday, February 29.
Our commitment to finding cures for rare diseases
At St. Jude, we’re committed to understanding and working toward cures for rare pediatric diseases. Thanks largely to donations from our dedicated supporters, scientists at St. Jude have developed a tool that can help identify the genetic reasons why some people are more prone to rare diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and numerous cancers.
This can help us understand what contributes to disease development, who may be predisposed to rare diseases and potential new treatment methods for those diseases.
St. Jude patient Avyan with his mom and dad
How to show your support on Rare Disease Day
There are many ways to make a difference this Rare Disease Day. Here are some suggestions for how to get involved.
Artwork by St. Jude patient Reid
Show your stripes
The zebra, with its signature black and white stripes — each with a pattern as different as a fingerprint — is the official symbol of rare diseases in the United States. This Rare Disease Day, show your support by wearing striped clothing and accessories, and spread awareness by explaining to others the meaning behind your clothing choices.
St. Jude patient Za'Mya
Learn and share about rare diseases
Education and awareness are a large part of how we celebrate Rare Disease Day. Take some time to learn about rare diseases and how they affect those who live with them, their families and caregivers. Research different diseases, read and share stories from patients and ask the people in your life with rare diseases about their experiences.
Support rare disease research
Research is essential to discovering new treatments and cures for rare diseases, and St. Jude is committed to furthering progress for a number of diseases. But research requires resources. Consider donating to organizations, like St. Jude, that are focused on finding breakthroughs and maximizing the impact of discoveries. You can also donate your time by volunteering.
Why support the global impact of St. Jude research?
St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
St. Jude cares for some of the world’s sickest children regardless of their race, ethnicity, beliefs, or ability to pay. Our patients receive the customized care they need, no matter what barriers they may face.
Because of your support, we can provide children cutting-edge treatments not covered by insurance, at no cost to families. Together, we can save more lives.
St. Jude patient Adalyn
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Ways to give
Find ways to give to St. Jude. Make a donation, memorialize a loved one, give through work or include St. Jude in your will.
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Get involved with St. Jude
See the ways you can fundraise for St. Jude or participate in an event to help save the lives of kids with cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
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Why St. Jude
Precision therapies. Better vaccines. Healthier, happier survivors. We dream big, and build our research programs to match.