Welcome to the Oklahoma Chapter of the Huntington's Disease Society of America (OKHDSA). We hope that you can find this website as a source of information and guidance on Huntington's Disease. There are numerous events and support groups for Huntington's Disease in Oklahoma that provide support for HD families, as well as help raise funds for HD research. Please browse our site, and should you have any questions, please contact us for any information.
The Oklahoma Woody Guthrie Festival will be held in mid-July to commemorate his legendary music and birthday. This free musical program is planned from July 8-12 in his hometown of Okemah, Oklahoma.
Mary Jo Guthrie Egmon will be the guest of honor for this annual event honoring the impact that her brother Woody made on music. This annual festival is funded by the OKC Arts Council.
Huntington’s disease is a progressive neurological disease that killed Oklahoman singer, and writer, Woody Guthrie in 1967, at the young age of 55. His creative spirit and outspoken demeanor made him an American symbol for social consciousness.
At the time of Woody’s death, there was very little research on the cause of HD or for a cure. Woody’s widow Marjorie appealed to her friend President Jimmy Carter to dedicate money in the National Institutes of Health specifically for neurological diseases, including Huntington’s research. Her request was approved and from her efforts, the Huntington’s Disease Society was formed in 1977 with a mission of improving the lives of persons with HD through research, education, and support services.
For more information about the Woody Guthrie Festival, go to www.woodyguthrie.com or call the local office at (405) 236-4372.
