World MSA Day
Our Community. Our Dedication. Our Day for Awareness.
October 3 is World MSA Day.
A day to honor those living with multiple system atrophy, remember those we have lost, recognize the people who support the MSA community, and to bring greater awareness of a disease that deserves better understanding and action.
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World MSA Day is our opportunity to ensure the experiences of families affected by MSA are recognized and supported. Whether you light a candle, share your story, make a contribution, start a fundraiser, or simply talk about MSA with someone new, your participation helps build vital visibility for the community.
What Is World MSA Day?
First observed in 2010, World MSA Day grew out of an international grassroots movement by advocates, those diagnosed, and families who recognized a critical need: a dedicated day to elevate multiple system atrophy on its own terms.
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On October 3, we invite patients, care partners, healthcare professionals, researchers, advocates, and friends to gather in spirit—bringing global recognition to everyone affected by MSA.
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Mission MSA marks October 3rd as our official Day of Giving. Because MSA deserves its own focused moment of support separate from general rare disease efforts, October 3rd is our dedicated initiative to mobilize resources—whether through a meaningful financial contribution, sharing awareness online, or offering support within our community.
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Together, we can expand visibility, connect people with essential resources, and advance progress toward better care, better symptom management, and ultimately, a cure.
Light the Way for the MSA Community
Over the years, community members around the world have quietly marked World MSA Day by lighting candles at home—creating a grassroots tradition of reflection, connection, and hope.
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That single flame carries deep meaning: bringing awareness to MSA, honoring those living with the disease, remembering loved ones we have lost, and looking toward a future of better care and ultimately, a cure.
To honor and support this organic community tradition, Mission MSA is proud to introduce our first official World MSA Day Candle.
Please place your candle order by Thursday, September 24 for an estimated delivery before World MSA Day (October 3). Light it on World MSA Day to honor someone affected by MSA, remember a loved one, recognize a care partner or professional who has made a difference, or simply show your support for the MSA community.
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Please note that due to production and shipping factors, delivery dates cannot be guaranteed.
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You can also participate by lighting a candle you already have at home.
How Will You Honor World MSA Day?
There is no single way to participate. Choose what feels meaningful to you and help make October 3 a day of understanding, connection, and action.
DONATE
Give MSA its own dedicated day of funding for patient resources, education, and research.
SHARE YOUR STORY
Submit a testimonial, blog post, or photo to help others feel less alone and raise awareness.
START A FUNDRAISER
Gather friends or family—virtually or in person—to raise funds for Mission MSA programs.
POST ONLINE
Share a photo of your candle or a message with #WorldMSADay and #MissionMSA and tag us, so we can feature it.
SHOP STOREFRONT
Wear your support with official apparel, awareness gear, and our World MSA Day Candle.
STAY CONNECTED
Follow Mission MSA on social media and join the conversation throughout World MSA Day.
TOGETHER, WE’RE BUILDING PROGRESS
When our global community unites on October 3, every story, candle, and contribution strengthens support for everyone impacted by MSA.
Path to a Cure: Mission MSA 5K
The Path to a Cure: Mission MSA 5K series is our community-driven flagship fundraiser, uniting individuals, families, and friends to bring hope, connection, and vital awareness to those affected by multiple system atrophy (MSA).
International MSA Congress
Following the incredible momentum of our inaugural International MSA Congress in 2025, Mission MSA is heading to Dallas, Texas in partnership with our Mission MSA Center of Excellence at UT Southwestern–to continue bridging the gap between breakthrough research and the people who need it most.