Editor:

Our 9-year-old daughter, Abbey, has a form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease a muscle disease that causes weakness and poor coordination and balance.

Abbey, who is the 2008 MDA National Goodwill Ambassador, walks with the aid of leg braces.

Our family deeply appreciates the services offered by the Muscular Dystrophy Association, such as medical care, summer camp and assistance obtaining needed equipment. We’re also extremely hopeful about the amazing research progress being made in the search for treatments and cures.

One way MDA funds these vitally important programs is through its Shamrocks Against Dystrophy campaign. In the weeks before St. Patrick’s day, patrons of supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants and other retailers purchase and sign $1 and $5 Shamrocks mobiles. Retailers then display the Shamrocks, often covering their walls and windows with layers of green and gold.

Please help support MDA’s fight against muscular dystrophy by purchasing a colorful green or gold Shamrock at your local retailer. By doing so, you’re buying hope for children and families coping with muscle diseases. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for caring.