It's National Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month. How many ways can you make a difference in September?

About Us

Our mission is to empower people living with neuromuscular diseases to live longer, more independent lives.

'MDA Show of Strength' raises more than $200,000 for St. Louis Families Living with Neuromuscular Diseases

The two-hour broadcast was broadcast on-air and online live from Grant’s Farm and hosted by Mike Bush, Anne Allred, Rene Knott, and Scott Connell.

Host and family standing on stage at the 2024 MDA Show of Strength.
Mike Bush interviews a family living with neuromuscular disease. Credit: Bill Greenblatt/UPI

ST. LOUIS — Wednesday, September 4, 2024, Generous St. Louisans once again stepped up to help the community by donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

5 On Your Side’s “MDA Show of Strength” raised $206,585 for people in St. Louis living with neuromuscular diseases. The two-hour broadcast was broadcast on-air and online live from Grant’s Farm and hosted by Mike Bush, Anne Allred, Rene Knott, and Scott Connell.

“We are profoundly moved by the generosity of the St. Louis community during the KSDK ‘MDA Show of Strength,’” said Donald S. Wood, PhD, President and CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Association. “The funds raised will directly support families in the region living with muscular dystrophy, ALS and over 300 related neuromuscular diseases, enabling us to continue our critical work in advancing research, enhancing care, and offering hope. This remarkable outpouring of support reflects the spirit of St. Louis, and we are honored to partner with the incredible team at KSDK, and our champion, Mike Bush! Together we are empowering families to live longer more independent lives.”

“I’m just so thankful to our viewers who once again showed their incredible generosity in supporting our local MDA telethon,” said Bush. “For nearly four decades, I've had the honor of hosting this event, and year after year, the St. Louis community has shown its heart of gold. Your unwavering commitment to helping families affected by devastating neuromuscular diseases is truly inspirational. When it matters most your kindness continues to make a profound difference.”

More than 5,500 people in the St. Louis area are helped by the MDA each year.

About Muscular Dystrophy Association

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 related neuromuscular conditions. For nearly 75 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of our families. MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org and follow MDA on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

About 5 On Your Side

5 On Your Side is the NBC affiliate in St. Louis, Missouri and has been a leader in local news, information, and community involvement for more than seven decades. 5 On Your Side is owned by TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA), an innovative media company that owns and operates 64 television stations in 51 markets. To learn more about 5 On Your Side, please visit KSDK.com.