About MDA

The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is a volunteer-based health organization founded in 1950 striving to put an end to neuromuscular diseases through international research, widespread services and extensive professional and public health education. MDA stands as the largest nongovernmental support for neuromuscular disease research. Individual and private voluntary contributions fund almost all of MDA’s programs and activities allowing the organization to offer its services at no cost.

Neuromuscular diseases affect more than one million Americans; 250,000 of whom have some form of muscular dystrophy. MDA covers over 40 neuromuscular diseases including nine forms of muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease), myasthenia gravis, spinal muscular atrophy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and others. MDA’s services include an annual kids summer camp, over 225 hospital-affiliated clinics, 37 MDA/ALS centers, research grants to about 400 teams of scientists and medical researchers, MDA support groups, public and professional health education programs, and other assistance for families and people affected by neuromuscular diseases.

MDA would like to thank all the individuals and sponsors whose generosity make it possible for MDA to continue international research programs, nationwide programs that help those with neuromuscular diseases and their families, and special community fundraising events.

About Coach Mike Bellotti

Since his appointment on February, 13th, 1995, Mike Bellotti has enjoyed a successful tenure at the University of Oregon (UO) as the head football coach. Coach Bellotti remains unwaveringly dedicated to his family, his players and the Eugene community.

While Coach Bellotti dedicates countless hours preparing his team for another PAC-10 season, he also finds time to support a number of charities, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). He raises funds and awareness for the organization through the annual Mike Bellotti Dinner Auction and Golf Classic fundraiser, which raised a record $154,000 in 2008. Coach Bellotti has supported MDA for over a decade.

"It touches more people than we know, and helping out with this event is something I look forward to," said Coach Bellotti.

He finds satisfaction in the compassion and invovlement that his players and the Eugene community show by supporting the MDA.

"It makes me feel proud when I see my players get involved. It's something they look forward to being a part of," said Coach Bellotti.

Reuniting with former players and old friends at the Eugene Country Club is an experience Coach Bellotti enjoys every year."The golf classic is a great way for the community to come together for a meaningful cause," Bellotti concludes.

About Coach Gary Campbell

When it comes to UO football, everyone knows Assistant Coach, Gary Campbell. What most duck fans may not know is that Coach Campbell's son, Bryan, was diagnosed at birth with a neuromuscular disease.

The Campbell's are thankful for the support of the MDA and the numerous resources that are available to Bryan and the family. Coach Campbell has been on the MDA Mike Bellotti Dinner Auction and Golf Classic planning committee for several years and has attended MDA classes for families struggling to cope with the disease.

Coach Campbell and Coach Bellotti team up with MDA for these events in order to raise funds and awareness for those living with neuromuscular diseases.

Additional Resources

 Mike Bellotti Coaching Biography

GoDucks.com

Eugene Country Club Web site