Toyonaka City to Hold Awareness Campaign for Intractable Disease Day on May 23

To deepen understanding of intractable diseases among more people, Toyonaka City will conduct a public awareness campaign at the plaza in front of Hankyu Toyonaka Station to coincide with Intractable Disease Day on May 23.

Additionally, the city has released an awareness video titled 'Let's All Think About Intractable Diseases,' where citizens with intractable diseases share their real-life experiences.

Approximately 3,800 patients with intractable diseases live in our city. However, because their conditions may not be outwardly visible and their symptoms and daily life challenges vary individually, it can be difficult to gain understanding from those around them. Through this awareness campaign, the city aims to expand opportunities for citizens to learn about intractable diseases and promote the development of a community where everyone can live with peace of mind.

Intractable Disease Day

To commemorate the enactment of the 'Act on Medical Care for Patients with Intractable Diseases' (Intractable Diseases Act) on May 23, 2014, the Japan Patient Association (JPA) registered May 23 as 'Intractable Disease Day' each year.

Outline of the Public Awareness Campaign and Video

1. Public Awareness at the Station

Date & Time: Saturday, May 23, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Plaza in front of Hankyu Toyonaka Station

Activities: Distribution of awareness wet wipes, etc.

2. Awareness Video 'Let's All Think About Intractable Diseases Ver.2'

Featuring:

- Izumi Nishimura (Spinal Muscular Atrophy)

- Keita Matsumoto (Bickerstaff's Brainstem Encephalitis)

- Dr. Yosuke Ishii (Ulcerative Colitis), Director of Ouchi no Shinryojo & CEO of omniheal Inc.