Event Summary

Rare Disease Day has grown so much from the first edition, in 2008, when just 18 countries, mainly from Europe, participated. For 2018 patient groups, medical professionals and friends of Rare Disease Day hosted events in over 90 countries! This year the #ShowYourRare campaign was launched with thousands across the world painting their face to show their support for those living with rare diseases.

Events took place in every corner of the globe with patient groups and medical professionals hosting thousands of events worldwide!
5 new countries joined the movement this year: Togo, Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Cape Verde and The Syrian Arab Republic
There was a huge variety of events. There were sports events, awareness walks, and even flash mobs !

Media Coverage

Mentioned by athletes, bloggers, rock bands, and a former prime minister, Rare Disease Day 2018 was reported across the world, from Australia to South Africa.

Social Media Highlight

• Thousands of people painted their face to show support for those living with a rare disease for the #ShowYourRare social media campaign.
• The #RareDiseaseDay thunderclap reached 1 700 000 people and the video was viewed by over 350 000 people.