February 28

Rare Disease Day

Join us in raising awareness for rare diseases on Rare Disease Day - help us make a difference and spread knowledge about these special causes.

Yearly Date

February 28

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Each year on February 28th, people from around the world come together to recognize and raise awareness for Rare Disease Day. Established in 2008, this day is dedicated to honoring those living with a rare disease as well as their families and caregivers. With over 6,000 different types of rare diseases, this day is an important reminder to all of us that we should be mindful of these conditions and strive to support those affected by them. It's also a great opportunity to celebrate how far medical science has come in the past few decades in understanding and treating rare diseases.

Rare Disease Day Timeline

2008

Establishment of Rare Disease Day

Rare Disease Day was established by EURORDIS and its Council of National Alliances to raise awareness for over 6,000 identified rare diseases.

2008

First Rare Disease Day

The first-ever Rare Disease Day was hosted on February 29th, a 'rare' date. After 2008, it continues to be observed on February 28th.

2009

Spreading Awareness Globally

Rare Disease Day started getting global attention with participation from 24 countries including New Zealand, Canada, and the US.

2013

Patient Voice Recognition

The Rare Disease Day campaign was titled "Rare Disorders without Borders," emphasizing the need to listen to the patient's voice.

2015

Day for Research Progress

Rare Disease Day highlighted the critical role of research in discovering new treatments and potentially curing rare diseases.

2020

Marking Achievements in Diagnosis

Rare Disease Day celebrated the advancements in technology and diagnostics making it possible to detect rare diseases early and accurately.

How to Celebrate Rare Disease Day

1 Organize a walk

Organize a walk in your community to raise awareness and money for rare diseases. Invite local business sponsors or partner with charities to help fund the event.

2 Host a fundraiser

Host a fundraiser to benefit research on rare diseases. Create t-shirts and other merchandise to support the cause. Ask local businesses to donate items for a silent auction.

3 Write letters

Write letters to your local congressional representatives and ask them to support legislation that would fund research on rare diseases.

4 Create art

Create art that celebrates rare disease awareness. Showcase your work in an art gallery or on social media to get the word out.

5 Volunteer

Volunteer at a local hospital or clinic that offers treatment for rare diseases. Your help can make a difference in the lives of those affected by these diseases.

Why Rare Disease Day is Important

Raising awareness for rare diseases

By raising awareness and advocating for those affected by rare diseases, Rare Disease Day helps to bring much-needed attention and support to the cause. This can help create more funding for research into these conditions, which could lead to improved treatments and a better understanding of the causes.

Breaking down stigmas

By highlighting the reality of living with rare diseases, Rare Disease Day helps break down any negative stigmas associated with them. It raises awareness not only of the conditions but also of how it affects the everyday life of those who live with them. This is important in destigmatizing rare diseases and normalizing conversations about them.

Creating a sense of community

Rare Disease Day provides an opportunity for those affected by rare diseases to find others who understand what they are going through. It creates a safe space where people can connect, share their stories, offer support, and celebrate what makes them unique. This can create a powerful sense of solidarity that will hopefully inspire lasting change.