What is World Scleroderma Day?

World Scleroderma Day is celebrated every year on June 29 worldwide. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease that affects the skin, connective tissues, and internal organs. It highlights the struggles of those living with the condition and promotes efforts to improve treatment, support, and research.

World Scleroderma Day is not just about medical information. It also aims to spread hope, inspire solidarity, and encourage a broader understanding of the physical and emotional challenges people with scleroderma face. Across the world, patients, families, healthcare providers, and advocates come together to make their voices heard.

History and Origin

World Scleroderma Day was officially established to commemorate the life and legacy of Swiss artist Paul Klee, who died on June 29, 1940, after battling complications from scleroderma. His art, marked by vibrant colors and abstract forms, reflects a journey of creativity and resilience despite his illness.

The idea for World Scleroderma Day was first presented during the 1st Systemic Sclerosis World Congress in 2010, held in Florence, Italy. Patient organizations across Europe and beyond embraced June 29 as a global day of action, education, and remembrance. Since then, the day has grown, with activities, campaigns, and events organized by advocacy groups, medical institutions, and support networks around the world.

World Scleroderma Day brings international attention to a disease that often remains in the shadows. It honors not only the memory of Paul Klee but also the millions living today with scleroderma who continue to fight for better care and greater understanding.

Who participates in World Scleroderma Day?

• Patients and Patient Groups: Share experiences, raise visibility, and advocate for greater medical attention.
• Healthcare Providers: Host educational webinars, seminars, and free screening events.
• Advocacy Organizations: Lead global campaigns to promote awareness and fund scientific research.
• Family Members and Friends: Show support by participating in events and helping spread information.
• General Public: Engage with online campaigns, donate to causes, and help amplify patient voices.

Slogans and Themes

World Scleroderma Day often carries slogans like “Shine a Light on Scleroderma” and “Find the Light to Bloom.” These slogans express hope, resilience, and the ongoing fight for visibility and recognition. Themes typically focus on empowerment, the need for early diagnosis, and the importance of continued research and innovation.

The message behind World Scleroderma Day is clear: although scleroderma may be rare, the people affected deserve full recognition, support, and access to better treatments.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Teal: Represents scleroderma awareness and symbolizes hope and strength.
• White: Reflects the purity of the global effort to raise understanding and compassion.
• Blue: Emphasizes serenity, support, and the calm determination of the scleroderma community.

Symbols

• Teal Ribbon: Universal symbol for scleroderma awareness, worn proudly by supporters worldwide.
• Butterfly: Represents transformation, hope, and the fragile strength needed to live with a rare disease.
• Abstract Art Motifs: Honor Paul Klee and symbolize creativity and resilience in the face of adversity.

Patterns

• Soft Wave Designs: Symbolize flexibility, endurance, and adaptation through challenges.
• Circular Shapes: Reflect unity and the interconnected efforts of patient communities and medical research.
• Brushstroke Textures: Inspired by artistic expression, representing each individual’s unique journey.

Most Used Hashtags

• #WorldSclerodermaDay
• #SclerodermaAwareness
• #ShineALightOnScleroderma
• #FindTheLightToBloom
• #SclerodermaWarrior

How do you celebrate World Scleroderma Day?

• Wear Teal: Show support by incorporating teal clothing or accessories into your outfit.
• Share Awareness: Post facts, personal stories, or campaign materials across your social media platforms.
• Attend Events: Join local walks, webinars, or conferences dedicated to scleroderma awareness and research.
• Donate to Research: Support organizations working toward better treatments and cures for scleroderma.
• Educate Others: Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about what scleroderma is and why awareness matters.

Why is World Scleroderma Day important?

World Scleroderma Day is important because it shines a spotlight on a disease that remains underrecognized despite its serious impact. Raising awareness is crucial to improving early diagnosis, which can lead to better management and outcomes. Many people with scleroderma wait years for a proper diagnosis, enduring symptoms without clear answers. This day encourages healthcare professionals to stay informed and vigilant.

Beyond medical awareness, the day fosters a strong sense of community among those affected. Living with a rare disease can be isolating. Knowing that others across the world are raising their voices creates hope and motivation. World Scleroderma Day sends a powerful message: no one should have to face scleroderma alone, and collective action can drive change.

Advancing research is another major goal of the day. Scleroderma still has no known cure. Increased public understanding and visibility lead to stronger fundraising efforts, more research initiatives, and ultimately a future where this disease can be better treated or even prevented.

Celebrating World Scleroderma Day honors the courage of those who live with the disease every day. It builds bridges between patients, researchers, and the broader public, reminding everyone that solidarity and compassion can lead to meaningful progress.