Every Story Shines Green
October 22
You Reading This Matters.
When you take the time to read, ask a question, learn something new, or share what you discover, you help more people understand Phelan-McDermid syndrome.
This October 22, join families, advocates, researchers, clinicians, and supporters around the world in raising awareness and celebrating the individuals at the heart of our community.
Ask. Learn. Share.
About Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Awareness Day
Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Awareness Day (PMSAD) is held every year on October 22. Families began this tradition to shine a light on Phelan-McDermid syndrome, and it has grown into a global effort to build awareness, understanding, and support.
Green has long represented the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation and our community. On October 22, people around the world wear green, share stories and educational resources, illuminate landmarks, and invite others to learn about Phelan-McDermid syndrome.
Every story shines green, and every person who stops to read, learn, and share helps that light reach someone new.
Why Awareness Matters
Awareness is more than recognition. It can lead to understanding, connection, and action.
Greater recognition can help families and healthcare professionals identify Phelan-McDermid syndrome and may shorten the path to a diagnosis.
Greater visibility draws attention from researchers, clinicians, industry partners, and policymakers who can help improve care and advance research.
- More understanding helps individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome and their families feel seen, respected, and supported.
Sharing real experiences reduces isolation, challenges assumptions, and celebrates the dignity and individuality of every person with Phelan-McDermid syndrome.
Every question builds understanding. Every share helps someone new discover our community.
Ask. Learn. Share.
You do not need to be an expert or organize a large event to make a difference. Awareness can begin with one simple action.
Ask
Start a conversation. Ask a family about their experience. Invite someone to tell you more. Questions asked with curiosity and respect can lead to greater understanding.
Learn
Take a few minutes to learn what Phelan-McDermid syndrome is, how it can affect individuals differently, and why research, clinical care, family support, and community connection all matter.
Share
Share a PMSF post, video, family story, or educational resource with someone else. Add a personal message about why awareness matters to you, or simply invite others to learn alongside you.
You read it. Now help someone else discover it.
Thank You & Stay Connected
Thank you to every family, advocate, researcher, and partner who helps raise awareness on PMSAD and beyond. Your voices, stories, and actions bring visibility to this rare condition and hope for a brighter future.
Stay connected by signing up for updates from PMSF.
Together, we shine green for awareness, support, and hope.
Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Awareness Day Toolkit 2025
Everything you need to join in on Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Awareness Day is right here. Download, share, and shine green with us!
Social Media
Add a frame to your profile picture to show your support. Available in English and Spanish.
Don’t forget to tag us @Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation and CureSHANK on Facebook and @pmsf_official and CureSHANK on Instagram.
Use #PMSAD, #EveryStoryShinesGreen, #phelanmcdermidsyndrome
Need help with your frame? Reach out to jen@pmsf.org.
Create your Facebook Frame
- Edit the Canva frame with your photo
- MAKE YOUR POST SHAREABLE! Remember, posts on closed groups are NOT shareable.
- INCLUDE this statement in your post: “for more information about Phelan-McDermid syndrome, go to www.pmsf.org“.
Share Your Story
Need help telling your story? Use our flyer with easy prompts and examples to get started. Share a post, photo, or video with your story — and don’t forget to tag us!
Yard Sign
Print a yard sign to spread awareness in your neighborhood or community.
Our yard sign is designed for a standard 24 x 18 inch size. You have two easy options:
Order directly through Canva
Use this link: Canva Yard Sign
Canva will print and ship the sign straight to your home.
Download and print elsewhere
Download the yard sign image.
Upload it to any local or online printer that offers 24 x 18 inch yard signs (e.g., Staples, Vistaprint, FedEx).
Tip: Most yard signs are printed double-sided on weatherproof material and come with an H-stake for your lawn.
Downloadable Graphics
Share official PMSAD graphics to help raise awareness. Post them to your social media pages or send them to friends and family.
Fact Graphics (5 total) → Key facts about Phelan-McDermid syndrome
Simple Shareable → “Our Story Shines Green”
*Don’t forget to:
- Tag PMSF & CureSHANK in your posts
- Add your story to the caption
- Use the hashtags #PMSAD #EveryStoryShinesGreen #PhelanMcDermidSyndrome
Download your graphics by clicking here.
Phelan-McDermid Syndrome One-Page Summary
Looking for a simple way to share information about Phelan-McDermid syndrome with schools, healthcare providers, or your community? Download and print our one-page summary, designed to share key information about Phelan-McDermid syndrome in a clear and approachable way.
Shine Green. Post. Share. Contact Media
Share with your local legislators and media outlets
One way to spread awareness is by reaching out to your local newspaper, TV, or radio stations. Media coverage can bring our stories to a wider audience and help more people learn about Phelan-McDermid syndrome.
Look up reporters in your area who cover health, education, or community issues.
Share your story along with our press release or lighting request letter to make it easier for them to cover PMSAD.
Try to contact outlets by early October so they have time to prepare a story.
When talking with reporters, focus on:
Why awareness matters to families like yours
What #ShineGreen for PMSAD represents
How Phelan-McDermid syndrome impacts your loved one’s life
And always point them back to PMSF.org so readers and viewers can learn more.