International Angelman Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Dec 22, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Mar 16, 2022
Fact-checked by Gowri Rao
International Angelman Day is observed by families of those who are affected by this disease.

Where is International Angelman Day celebrated?

International Angelman Day is a global event. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about Angelman syndrome.

Who is International Angelman Day celebrated by?

This special day is a day of observance for all those who were born with this rare disease. Furthermore, families and friends of such people, along with those working in the healthcare profession, also celebrate this day.

Various organizations and fundraising entities working on Angelman syndrome also observe this day. For instance, Angelman Network, an organization based in New Zealand, commemorates this day.

When did International Angelman Day first start?

Angelman syndrome was described years ago in 1965. However, the celebration of International Angelman Day is a relatively new event that started in 2013. Ever since, it has been observed on February 15, annually.

Who started International Angelman Day?

This day, dedicated to providing support to those with Angelman syndrome, was started by the Angelman Syndrome Foundation.

History And Timeline

From discovering Angelman syndrome to modern research into a potential treatment method, this timeline below will provide you with all the information!

Discovery Of Angelman Syndrome

A pediatrician named Harry Angelman discovered this syndrome, which was consequently named after him.

1965

First Cases Of Angelman Syndrome

In the United States, the first appearance of Angelman syndrome in medical literature was in the 1980s.

1980s

Discovery Of Genetic Cause

Researchers noted that half of the children who were born with Angelman syndrome had parts of their chromosome number 15 deleted.

1987

First International Angelman Day

International Angelman Day was started by The Angelman Syndrome Foundation to unite people in raising awareness about this disease.

2013

Potential Cure

Researchers began looking into topoisomerase inhibitors. This inhibitor can activate a particular gene, UBE3A, which would restore its function in the body.

2017

Traditions And Customs

This day is characterized by various fundraiser events to further the research into this rare disease. Additionally, some people also sport blue ribbons, as that is the color of Angelman syndrome. Certain buildings are also lit up with blue to commemorate this day and remember those who were affected by this syndrome and passed away.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate International Angelman Day

The best way to celebrate this day is by raising awareness about Angelman syndrome. You can also direct people towards educational resources related to this disease. Furthermore, use this day to encourage fundraising programs for Angelman syndrome so that a cure can be found.

Facts And Stats

International Angelman Day was started in 2013.

This day is observed annually.

Various organizations unite on this day to raise awareness about this disease and promote more research into it.

What is Angelman Day?

International Angelman Day is a day observed globally to raise awareness about a rare disease known as Angelman syndrome.

Who discovered Angelman Syndrome?

Angelman syndrome was discovered by a pediatrician named Harry Angelman in the year 1965.

Who does Angelman Syndrome affect?

This genetic disorder affects both male and female children.

What is the significance of International Angelman Day?

International Angelman Day is quite significant as it helps raise awareness about this disease and promotes more research and funding.

How is International Angelman Day different from World Lupus Day?

World Lupus Day is observed on May 10 every year to raise awareness about lupus and support lupus-affected patients, whereas International Angelman Day is all about Angelman syndrome.

Why is Angelman Syndrome called Happy Puppet Syndrome?

This syndrome was known as the Happy Puppet Syndrome because the children who had Angelman syndrome would often have very happy personalities and jerky body movements.

Is Angelman syndrome a form of autism?

Some forms of autism have a similar genetic basis to that of Angelman syndrome. Hence, the current scientific consensus suggests that Angelman syndrome is a syndromic variant of autism.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Saturday, February 15, 2020
  • Monday, February 15, 2021
  • Tuesday, February 15, 2022
  • Wednesday, February 15, 2023
  • Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

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Fact-checked by Gowri Rao

Bachelor of Arts specializing in Economics

Gowri Rao picture

Gowri RaoBachelor of Arts specializing in Economics

With a bachelor's degree in Economics from Krea University, Gowri is a highly skilled data analyst and an expert in regression and causation modeling. Her interests in economic trends, finance, and investment research complement her professional expertise. In addition to her professional pursuits, Gowri enjoys swimming, running, and playing the drums, and she is also a talented tutor.

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