Frequently Asked Questions
The health and well-being of the DMRF community remains our highest priority and local public health guidelines and local zoo policies will be followed.
What are Dystonia Zoo Days?
Dystonia Zoo Days are a national series of family-friendly community events that promote awareness of dystonia, connect the dystonia community, and support the work of the DMRF. The Indianapolis Dystonia Zoo Day is organized by families in the Indy metro area affected with various forms of dystonia from childhood to adult onset, to promote awareness, educate the public, and generate funds for the DMRF.
What is Dystonia?
Dystonia is a brain disorder that causes extreme muscle spasms so intense they produce involuntary movements and postures of the body and limbs. Gait, balance, speech, and vision may be impaired due to the twisting, painful contortions, Put quite simply, people with dystonia cannot control the movement of their own bodies. The disorder affects people of all ages and backgrounds.
Where can I park?
TBD
What happens if it rains?
The event is rain or shine.
Where to meet?
TBD
Can I show up the day of the Dystonia Zoo Day without registering prior to?
Yes. Although we prefer pre-registration, we can get you registered the day-of. Please keep in mind t-shirts are not guaranteed if you register on-site. Pre-registration is always recommended.
Do I have to print the ticket I receive and bring it with me to the Dystonia Zoo Day?
No, we will have your registration on file. You do NOT need to print out anything.
How do I register my team?
Click "Register Today" and follow the steps to registering yourself first, then right before the billing information under (Optional) Select your team - select "New Team".
Why are there no team t-shirts this year?
To help bring the Dystonia Zoo Day program to more cities around the US this year, we are not able to offer personalized team t-shirts. Everyone will receive an Indianapolis specific shirt to commemorate the day. You are free to come up with creative ideas to identify your team - IE matching hats, team stickers - or other creative ideas.
Is there a limit to how many people can be on my team?
There is no limit, the more the merrier.
What is the Zoo policy on service animals?
Visit https://www.czs.org/custom.czs/media/BZ_Accessibility/A-Guide-for-Guests-with-Disabilities.pdf for more information.
What if there isn't a Dystonia Zoo Day close to me?
We invite you to be part of the National Dystonia Virtual Zoo Day this fall. Join us on Saturday, October 14. Click here to Register.
I want to mail in a donation. What do I need to do?
If you would like to make a donation by check, please make the check out to DMRF with a check memo to include Indianapolis Dystonia Zoo Day/Team Name and mail to Attention: Zoo Days, Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, One East Wacker Drive, Suite 1730, Chicago, IL 60601-1980
Is my donation to the Dystonia Zoo Day tax-deductible?
Yes, Dystonia Medical Research Foundation is registered as a not-for-profit, 501(c) (3) organization under the Internal Revenue Code, therefore all donations are tax-deductible as allowable by law. The DMRF’s Tax ID Number is 95-3378526.
Can I volunteer?
Volunteer opportunities may be available. Please contact the DMRF at events@dystonia-foundation.org or 800-377-3978.
Who should I contact with questions about the Dystonia Zoo Day?
Please contact the DMRF at zooday@dystonia-foundation.org or 800-377-3978.
Here is a map of the zoo for your convenience.