About MGFC
The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of California (MGFC) provides funds to advance the most promising research into the cause and cure of MG at prestigious universities and medical centers. Our foundation focuses on public and professional education through information and referral services, seminars for health care providers, and media coverage.

• Founded in 1954, (until 1995, our name was the California Chapter of the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation), we are the only voluntary health organization in California solely focused on the cause of Myasthenia Gravis (MG).
• With the ultimate goal of curing MG, we provide funding for medical education, patient support, and scientific research
• MGFC is a grassroots organization whereby 200 volunteers assist three paid staff in carrying out the services offered by the organization.
• To help serve MG patients residing in California and Nevada with the best possible care and resources available.
• MGFC is directed by a Medical Advisory Board comprised of preeminent researchers and clinicians from California's top scientific and medical institutions.
• Is governed by a Board of (volunteer) Directors, comprised of interested individuals from the corporate sector, as well as, those from the community-at-large; several of whom are MG patients.

Public Awareness
Since most people have never heard of MG until they or a loved one are diagnosed with it, public awareness of this disease is vitally important. The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of California operates on a grassroots model and depends on volunteers to accomplish most of the tasks associated with its mission. There are two important ways a person can volunteer to increase awareness of MG in his or her community:

• Speaker Bureaus - Service clubs, such as the Kiwanis, Rotary Club or Optimist International, offer a unique opportunity to educate others about MG. Securing a speaking engagement with a service club promotes awareness of MG in a very caring, active and far-reaching segment of one's community.
• Local Electronic and Print Media - Many newspapers have sections that focus on health issues. Radio programs or cable television shows may also have an interest in medical concerns of its listeners. By contacting your local media, you can learn of opportunities for publicity and you may even be encouraged to share your own MG story. (Samples of past newspaper articles and shows focusing on MG are available)

Volunteers and staff of the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of California (MGFC) encourage all efforts to secure greater public awareness about the disease. Informational brochures are available upon request. If you prefer, MG representatives can make the presentation to your local service clubs or will assist you in doing so. At your request, MG press kits will be sent to your local media contacts.

For further information, call the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation at (800) 574-7884 (in California and Nevada) or (323) 887-0056 or email: judy@myasthenia-ca.org.