Genzyme, a Sanofi company (EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY), marked World MS Day with activities across its global network and new programs designed to mobilize and inspire people living with multiple sclerosis. Genzyme is committed to a long-term partnership with the multiple sclerosis community and is advancing the field with a promising pipeline intended to address unmet medical needs and a world-class research program to bring forward future innovations in MS.
"To celebrate World MS Day, Genzyme employees are mobilizing globally to help increase understanding of multiple sclerosis and provide support for the community in very meaningful ways."
Developed by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) and in its fourth year, World MS Day raises global awareness of multiple sclerosis and its impact on the lives of more than two million people around the world. Genzyme is a proud sponsor of the MSIF's World MS Day.
"To celebrate World MS Day, Genzyme employees are mobilizing globally to help increase understanding of multiple sclerosis and provide support for the community in very meaningful ways," said Genzyme President and CEO, David Meeker. "We are dedicated to partnering with the patient community as we work to redefine what's possible in MS."
Today in the United States, Genzyme and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society have launched the Everyday Matters program to enhance the outlook and overall well-being of those living with or affected by MS. The interactive online program draws on practical and scientific applications of positive psychology and provides free resources and strategies for individuals to overcome challenges and achieve personal goals. The Everyday Matters team includes renowned positive psychology expert Shawn Achor, along with Emmy-award winning producer Kristen Adams and Certified Life Coach Michelle Clos, both living with MS, and will work hand-in-hand with five individuals affected by MS from across the U.S.
Additional Genzyme World MS Day Initiatives
World MS Day is May 30, 2012 and serves as the only global awareness-raising campaign for multiple sclerosis, according to the MSIF. World MS Day was launched in 2009 and is celebrated in countries worldwide with activities designed to provide the public with information about MS and how it affects the lives of patients. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, unpredictable and progressive disease of the central nervous system that is estimated to affect more than 2.1 million people worldwide. MS can lead to physical disability, cognitive impairment and fatigue.
Genzyme is supporting World MS Day globally with events and partnerships planned across sites in Spain, France, UK, Italy, U.S. and Netherlands that include fund-raising activities to raise money for local patient organizations and educational seminars led by MS advocacy representatives and healthcare providers. In addition, Genzyme France has joined the MS association, UNISEP, as a World MS Day partner, while Genzyme Spain developed the documentary RETOS ("Challenges") that explores the lives of three people living with MS. Site-wide events will include a book signing with an MS patient and author, a photo exhibition that links the World MS Day theme of 1000 Faces of MS, as well as presentations by patients.
About Genzyme, a Sanofi Company
Genzyme has pioneered the development and delivery of transformative therapies for patients affected by rare and debilitating diseases for over 30 years. We accomplish our goals through world-class research and with the compassion and commitment of our employees. With a focus on rare diseases and multiple sclerosis, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the patients and families we serve. That goal guides and inspires us every day. Genzyme's portfolio of transformative therapies, which are marketed in countries around the world, represents groundbreaking and life-saving advances in medicine. As a Sanofi company, Genzyme benefits from the reach and resources of one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, with a shared commitment to improving the lives of patients.
About Sanofi
Sanofi, a global and diversified healthcare leader, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions focused on patients' needs. Sanofi has core strengths in the field of healthcare with seven growth platforms: diabetes solutions, human vaccines, innovative drugs, consumer healthcare, emerging markets, animal health and the new Genzyme. Sanofi is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: SAN) and in New York (NYSE: SNY).