🦓 YEAR OF THE ZEBRA
Year of the Zebra: Cockayne Syndrome
In the medical world, the zebra is a symbol for rare diseases — a reminder to look beyond the obvious and consider conditions that are often overlooked.
Year of the Zebra is a Share & Care for Rare initiative dedicated to raising awareness, education, and understanding of Cockayne syndrome, a rare DNA repair disorder.
Founded in 1981, Share & Care has supported families affected by rare DNA repair disorders for over four decades. As we mark our 45th year, Year of the Zebra reflects both our history and our continued commitment to improving the lives of children and families today and in the future.
Why Cockayne Syndrome Is the Focus This Year
Cockayne syndrome is the focus of this year’s Year of the Zebra initiative as part of a dedicated effort to deepen awareness and understanding of this rare DNA repair disorder.
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Cockayne syndrome and Trichothiodystrophy are related conditions that share underlying DNA repair mechanisms, including nucleotide excision repair (NER). These shared pathways connect the experiences of families affected by both conditions.
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While this year’s initiative highlights Cockayne syndrome, Share & Care remains committed to supporting families affected by Trichothiodystrophy. Plans for a future Year of the Zebra focused on Trichothiodystrophy will depend on available funding, time, and volunteer support.
RARE DISEASE MONTH & THE VIDEO
February is recognized as Rare Disease Month, with Rare Disease Day observed on the last day of the month. This time is dedicated to raising awareness of rare conditions and the families who live with them every day.
As part of Year of the Zebra, Share & Care will be releasing a new educational video focused on Cockayne syndrome. The video highlights the importance of understanding rare DNA repair disorders and includes discussion of shared pathways, such as nucleotide excision repair (NER), that connect related conditions like Trichothiodystrophy.
This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to education, awareness, and collaboration during Rare Disease Month and beyond.
🦓 STAY CONNECTED
Year of the Zebra is an evolving initiative. We invite families, clinicians, researchers, and supporters to stay connected as we share updates, educational resources, and new content throughout the year.
Please check back for updates, follow Share & Care for Rare on social media, and watch for the release of our upcoming Year of the Zebra video during Rare Disease Month.