Each year, two million volunteers are the driving force that enables the Muscular Dystrophy Association to accelerate its worldwide research program and provide diagnostic and follow-up care through approximately 200 clinics nationwide. With the hard work and dedication of these volunteers, MDA hosts a number of special events throughout the country, including the MDA Lock-Up, a fundraiser where local business and community leaders have a chance to be “locked-up” and “raise bail.” Bail is raised by donations from business associates, family and friends to support adults and children in their area who are living with neuromuscular disease.

The Orthopaedic Institute is proud to support two of its employees,Christina Jonesand Chelsea Watts, who were nominated to participate in this year’s Lock-Up event to benefit the MDA inOcala. TOI will hold a jeans day on Friday to help raise bail. Employees can donate a minimum of $5 and wear jeans to work in support of their co-workers.

Proceeds collected will aid numerous outlets including specialized medical care clinics, research, support for families, and patients and camps.

“The part I am looking forward to most, and this is also the most rewarding, is being able to raise money for families so they can send their children to MDA camps,” saidChristina Jones, employee of TOI participating in the lock-up event. “The camps are so expensive, so being able to help raise something, helps make a difference for a family in our community.”

MDA was created in 1950 by a group of adults with muscular dystrophy, parents of children with muscular dystrophy and a physician-scientist studying the disorder.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research, comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.