Born on February 29
Rare Disease Day
Rare, but never alone.
Next: February 28, 2027
Where it comes from
Rare Disease Day was created by EURORDIS-Rare Diseases Europe and first held, together with its Council of National Alliances, in 2008. The aim was a global awareness campaign to bring rare diseases into the spotlight.
How it's celebrated
EURORDIS still coordinates the campaign, with national rare disease alliances as its official partners. Every year thousands of events are organised around the world, from awareness campaigns to policy meetings, and people share their photos, videos and personal stories online.
Did you know
Eighteen countries took part in the first Rare Disease Day in 2008.
Read the full story of Rare Disease Day
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Pisces · February 19 – March 20 · Water sign
Dreamy and kind, with an artist's imagination.