#United States #Austin #Rare Diseases #NORD #Paramount Pictures

Paramount Pictures and NORD Unite for Rare Disease Awareness

In an impactful collaboration, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has teamed up with Paramount Pictures to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals living with rare diseases. This partnership coincides with the upcoming release of the action thriller Novocaine, starring Jack Quaid, and aims to create awareness while fundraising to support those affected by rare conditions.

The campaign launched on February 27, 2025, aligns with Rare Disease Day, which occurs on February 28, and emphasizes the urgent need for attention towards the rare disease community. For every dollar raised during the campaign, Paramount Pictures has committed to matching contributions up to $40,000, significantly bolstering NORD's efforts to improve the quality of life for the over 30 million Americans grappling with these rare ailments.

Rare diseases, which collectively affect approximately 1 in 10 Americans, often lead to considerable challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Alarmingly, children represent half of those affected. Due to the low prevalence of individual conditions, medical expertise and resources can be overtly limited. Moreover, financial and emotional burdens significantly tax patients and their families, as they face medical costs that are three to five times higher than those of individuals without rare diseases.

The Voice Behind the Cause

Alexa Moore, Vice President of Development at NORD, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, stating, “Rare disease patients, their families, and caregivers need new allies in the public beyond those directly impacted by rare conditions.” This partnership with Paramount Pictures marks a pivotal move in raising not only financial support but also public consciousness regarding rare diseases as a pressing public health crisis.

The funds raised will directly contribute to NORD's patient assistance programs and services, with nearly 93% of every dollar donated going towards this critical assistance. Since 2018, NORD has already allocated $200 million in financial aid to patients and caregivers, helping cover essential medications and related costs.

Further Engagement and Opportunities

To engage the public further, NORD's Running for Rare initiative will hold a 5K event in Austin, Texas, on March 1, 2025. This charity running program allows participants diagnosed with rare conditions to join forces with community members to raise awareness and funds for NORD. Attendees can expect to meet star Jack Quaid and receive a complimentary T-shirt and screening tickets for Novocaine as incentives to participate.

Rare Disease Day serves as an international platform to advocate for better diagnosis, treatment, and care for the estimated 300 million individuals worldwide living with rare diseases. NORD remains proud to serve as the official U.S. sponsor of this initiative.

In summary, the merging of entertainment and advocacy through this collaboration can uplift the voices of those impacted by rare diseases, thereby leading to a greater understanding and support system as well as essential funding for life-changing assistance. For further details about the 5K event and how to participate, visit NORD's official website or the event page directly.

About NORD and Paramount Pictures

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), founded over 42 years ago, is a leading nonprofit dedicated to enhancing care and research for individuals living with rare diseases. Working alongside more than 350 patient organizations, NORD aims to serve patients through advocacy and support initiatives.

Paramount Pictures, a unit of Paramount Global, is renowned for producing and distributing high-quality entertainment. This partnership marks their commitment to socially responsible initiatives focusing on public health and welfare, making their role in this cause even more significant.

For more information about Rare Disease Day, visit rarediseaseday.us.