Today is Rare Disease Day 2018!

With events happening in over 90 countries and regions across the world, together we can raise awareness to help further the rare disease cause. 5 new countries are participating in Rare Disease Day 2018: Cape verde, Ghana, Syrian Arab Republic, Togo & Trinidad and Tobago!

Rare Disease Day 2018 (28 February) focuses on this year’s theme – research. The patient community needs researchers. They discover diseases and develop treatments and cures. But researchers also need patients and rely upon their participation to ensure research is meaningful. Patients are not only subjects but also proactive actors in research.

This year’s official video, which has been translated into 35 languages, features patients and family members, researchers and doctors who show their rare. The video shows the wide range of people involved in the rare disease cause and together, with your support, they can be a strong voice for greater progress in research of rare diseases.

You are still able to participate in raising awareness of the day and be part of the change by taking part in our campaign #ShowYourRare. Post an image or selfie on any social media channel with your face painted and include the hashtags #ShowYourRare, #MyRare or #RareDiseaseDay.

Alternatively you can share the video, the poster, or any Rare Disease Day material on your Facebook, Twitter or other social media platforms.