As a “rare” disease, the overall incidence of myocarditis is unknown and probably underdiagnosed. In 2017, 3.1 million cases of myocarditis were diagnosed, but it is likely that even more went undiagnosed. This is due to myocarditis lacking any specific symptoms. Many of the symptoms, mimicking viral syndromes, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain, are often falsely attributed to other medical issues. Many cases are not confirmed until after other diagnoses are ruled out, sometimes not until the heart is biopsied on autopsy. Many of the stories we feature exemplify how uncommon the knowledge of myocarditis is among the public and even medical professionals. Myocarditis was not taught in medical schools until the last few years as it is considered a rare disease. As such, myocarditis was barely touched upon as they did not know much about it. The Myocarditis Foundation has played a large part in getting the information out to the nursing and public communities and Dr. Leslie Cooper has been key in getting education out to the medical communities.
That is why the Myocarditis Foundation’s mission is so important, and that is why we ask that you consider the Myocarditis Foundation in your Giving Tuesday plans. Taking place on December 3rd, Giving Tuesday is the largest day for charitable donations in the world. Supporting the Myocarditis Foundation on Giving Tuesday or during the holiday giving season would help support our programs and allow us to do more for patients and their families.
Founded and led by volunteers, world-renowned physicians, and patients, we know the effects of myocarditis, whether that comes from seeing a loved one struggle, treating a patient, or firsthand experience. We are dedicated to spreading awareness of this disease, supporting patients and their families, as well as supporting research and treatment for myocarditis to save lives. Currently, the Myocarditis Foundation is the only nonprofit organization dedicating all of our resources to helping those with myocarditis. Without our work, thousands of myocarditis patients and their families would go without the knowledge and support we provide. All of this is made possible by the donations we receive to fund daily operations and work toward a cure.
We are so grateful for the support that we have received over the last year. Our community has been an incredible help in spreading awareness and funding research into myocarditis. However, with the end of the year approaching and holiday giving being on people’s minds, it is time to start thinking about 2020. Making a tax-deductible donation to the Myocarditis Foundation on Giving Tuesday and during the giving season will go a long way toward supporting our fight against myocarditis and our work to save lives. The Myocarditis Foundation will be extraordinarily grateful for any gift you choose to give on either Giving Tuesday or during the holiday giving season.
Donate today and help us end suffering and sudden death from myocarditis.
