The IRDSN is a world wide health organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people affected by rare 'orphan' diseases or disorders. The IRDSN enables members to begin making friends, sharing information and support with others around the world who have also been affected by the same 'little known' disorder.

The IRDSN currently offers support groups for over 1200 diseases and disorders as well as support groups for people who share a common language and culture. The IRDSN also offers a single non-disease specific support group for discussions of more general topics shared by all.

Rare diseases and disorders affect an estimated 26 million Americans. One out of every 10 persons has received a diagnosis of a rare disorder. Worldwide they are estimated to affect than 600 million people. It is amazing to me how something called "rare" could affect so many people.

If you are experiencing difficulty with any of our links or you are unable to find your disease/disorder...Please contact me!

IRDSN Membership as of November 2003
10,000+ in our top 80 support groups