Rett Syndrome Awareness
Rett Syndrome Awareness Month
October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month across the world. It's a time when communities come together to raise awareness about this rare neurological disorder. Throughout the month, various events, fundraisers, and educational campaigns are organized to support research and provide resources for families impacted by Rett Syndrome. Educating the public and fostering a supportive community, we can help improve the lives of those living with Rett Syndrome and bring us closer to finding a cure.
October Events
Ride or Stride for Rett Syndrome Walk
The Ride or Stride for Rett Syndrome Walk, Fundraiser & Family BBQ began in October 2019 as a way to bring families, friends and supporters together to kick off Rett Syndrome Awareness Month.
After a two-year pause during the pandemic, the event returned and has continued to grow. Today, Ride or Stride for Rett Syndrome is an annual fundraiser that brings our community together to walk or stride, raise funds and awareness, and enjoy a family BBQ afterward.
It has become a special day of community, connection, awareness and support for the Manitoba Rett Syndrome Association.
pRETTy awesome Initiative
Started in May 2024 and officially launched on October 1, 2024, pRETTy awesome. was created by two Manitoba moms and Manitoba Rett Syndrome Association board members, Trish and Sharon.
The initiative was created to spark conversations, raise awareness and celebrate the incredible individuals living with Rett syndrome. While Rett syndrome brings rare and complex challenges, it does not define the person. Individuals with Rett syndrome have their own personalities, interests, opinions, abilities, aspirations and so much to contribute.
Through pRETTy awesome., we encourage people to learn about Rett syndrome while truly seeing, hearing and including those who live with it.
Now in its third year, pRETTy awesome. continues to grow across Canada, with the Rett Syndrome Society of British Columbia, Rett Syndrome Society of Alberta, Saskatchewan Rett Syndrome Association and Association québécoise du syndrome de Rett joining Manitoba in the initiative. Materials are available in both English and French, helping the message reach even more communities across Canada.
For the first two years, pRETTy awesome. shirts helped spread the message and start conversations in communities across the country. As for year three… you’ll have to wait and see what’s coming next!
pRETTy awesome. is proudly sponsored by Acadia Pharmaceuticals Canada.
Light Canada Purple
Every year on October 29th, a nationwide grassroots campaign raises awareness for Rett syndrome. Landmarks are lit up in purple, the colour representing Rett syndrome awareness, to demonstrate solidarity and share a message of hope and resilience.
This initiative, which was initially launched in October 2021 by the Ontario Rett Syndrome Association, quickly gained popularity, drawing attention from families, community members, and businesses alike. O.R.S.A. now partners with various Rett organizations throughout Canada, including those in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Quebec, to support the #LightCanadaPurple campaign.
A few of many notable landmarks across Canada that have participated in this initiative include the CN Tower, Niagara Falls, Esplanade Riel Footbridge, SaskTel Centre, High Level Bridge, S.S. Klondike, and BC Place.