The Dystonia Coalition (DC) solicits applications for Pilot Projects Program (PPP) and a Career Development Award (CDA) each year.  All applications are reviewed by the DC’s Review Boards and during a recent annual meeting, it was suggested that the DC share information with all Patient Advocacy Groups (PAG). This give PAGs the opportunity to co-supporting research projects that align with their missions.  We are pleased to announce that the NSTA is supporting two PPPs that focus on cervical dystonia.

The first PPP study is titled, “Moodscreen for cervical dystonia: a diagnostic accuracy study of depression and anxiety” submitted by candidate Davide Martino, MD, PhD from Canada. This study was allocated $2,000 that came from the recently disbanded NSTA Sacramento Chapter lead by Marge Wallace in memory of Howard Thiel.

The second PPP we are supporting is “The effect of multi-day continuous theta-burst stimulation on symptoms of cervical dystonia” submitted by Daniel Corp, PhD from Australia. This PPP study received $4,000 from the NSTA through the John Barth Research Fund.  John has done many fundraisers through the years for NSTA, and we are pleased to start disbursing the funds he has raised to research.

We appreciate the kindness and generosity of people like Marge and John who do so much to help people with dystonia through their actions and fundraising efforts. If you, family or friends find yourself in a position to give extra and want to donate to research, please think of the NSTA and let us know that the funds are specifically for research. All donations sent to the NSTA are tax deductible and a receipt will be sent to the donor.