Every year May 15 is observed internationally, to raise awareness against mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS).
MPS are rare genetic disorders in children and adults caused by the absence of a specific enzyme. There are 7 types of MPS. It is estimated that 1 in every 25,000 infants born will have an MPS disorder. There is no cure and MPS conditions can affect nearly every organ in the body and can cause death unless treated early. Early diagnosis can dramatically change outcomes!
IT’S ABOUT TIME – A Global Campaign
We are proud to partner with over 40 global organizations to raise awareness for MPS around the world. Together with our industry partners and within the International MPS network (IMPSN) are rolling out a multichannel campaign “It’s About Time” a global awareness initiative aimed at raising awareness about Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) diseases and advocating for improved access to treatment and support for affected individuals and families.
We will be posting animations, videos and social posts as part of this international campaign. For our message to go viral, we need it to be shared as widely as possible. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.
Learn more about the IMPSN here: impsn.ca
Every Second Matters – The Canadian Campaign
Our campaign centers on two vital calls to action:
- Newborn Screening in Every Province – Early detection saves lives and improves outcomes. Currently screening for MPS is only included in Ontario and Alberta. We advocate for comprehensive MPS screening programs across ALL Canadian provinces.
- Data Collection Through the Canadian Registry – Data collection is critical to advancing MPS care in Canada. Our campaign highlights how Canadian Registry information directly enables clinical trials in our country, bringing new hope and treatments to Canadian families affected by MPS. This data can also accelerate therapy approval processes.
Canada lightS UP on MPS Day!
Iconic landmarks across Canada will light up in blue and yellow on May 15, International MPS Awareness Day. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the illuminating partners for extending their support to raise awareness for MPS across Canada.
Help spread awareness by taking a selfie!
We would love to see your photos and posts of you at one of the illuminated landmarks! Please remember to tag us @CanadianMPSSociety on your social media posts, and use the hashtags #CanMPSSociety #NBS4MPS #MPSDAY #MPSAwarenessDay to help us find and share your content.
Iconic sites lighting up for MPS Day
Visit one of the many exciting iconic sites lighting up for MPS Day:
(Check back as more iconic buildings will be added as we receive confirmation.)
Alberta
City of Red Deer’s City Hall (from sunset)
Calgary Tower
British Columbia
BC Place, Vancouver (from sunset)
Canada Place Sails of Light, Vancouver
City Hall Port Moody
Victoria Street Bridge, City of Trail
Whistler Fitzsimmons Covered Bridge
Ontario
Brant Street Pier, Burlington
City Hall of Kingston
CN Tower (Last 30 minutes of each hour after Sunset) See it on The Live Cam!
Hamilton Signature Sign
Niagara Falls (10:00 pm EST for 15 minutes) See it on The Live Cam!
Oakville Town Hall
Mississauga Clock Tower from 8pm
Mississauga Celebration Square – watch the digital screen for their promotional message
Moncton: Downing St.
Moncton: Avenir Centre
Moncton: City Hall
London City Hall
JA Taylor building at Wellington and Dundas
RBC London Place
Vaughan City Hall
Quebec
Saskatchewan
City of Saskatoon has issued a proclamation
(Photos from last year)
Make MPS Day Your Way!
Can’t make it to one of the iconic sites? Show your support and raise awareness for MPS by setting up your own illuminations! Light up your home, driveway, sidewalk, garden, office, and neighborhood in blue and yellow. (A flashlight with blue and yellow balloons over the light works wonders.)
Take pictures of your illuminations and tag us @CanadianMPSSociety on your social media posts, and use the hashtags #CanMPSSociety #NBS4MPS #MPSDAY #MPSAwarenessDay to help us find and share your content.
POST YOUR MPS STORY
Share your MPS story on your social channels and Make sure to tag us @CanadianMPSSociety so we can share your story on our channels too!
