What is World Scleroderma Day?
Held every year on June 29
A global awareness day for people living with scleroderma
Aims to raise awareness, support patients and inspire solidarity
Take a look back – Past World Scleroderma Day Campaigns
Why June 29th matters
World Scleroderma Day is marked on June 29 in honour of artist Paul Klee, who lived with systemic scleroderma.
His legacy reminds us of the impact of the disease and the power of expression.
This date connects art, history, and the scleroderma community in a unique way that resonates with people worldwide.
The history of World Scleroderma Day
Having a disease that nobody has heard of is a lonely business. When even the doctors cannot recognise it, or tell you what is going to happen, it is lonelier still.
Scleroderma Awareness Day was created to tell people, including the medical community, what it means to have this disabling disease. June 29 is a day to recognise the bravery of those who live with scleroderma, and to demand equal treatment and equal care for people with scleroderma across Europe.
The launch of European Scleroderma Day on the 29th June 2009 was celebrated in almost all of our member countries as it was decided by the FESCA at a meeting in 2008.
Why June 29th?
The gifted Swiss artist Paul Klee made painting his life’s work, but it was strongly influenced by his illness, systemic scleroderma. Paul Klee died June 29th, 1940.
The swiss Paul Klee Zentrum in Bern boasts the world’s most important collection of paintings, watercolours and drawings as well as archives and biographical material from all the creative periods of Paul Klee’s life which also can be visited through their website: Visit www.zpk.org
Going from zero to World Scleroderma Day in 2 years
In February 2010 the 1st SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS WORLD CONGRESS was held in Florence, Italy, with participants from countries from all over the world. At the world congress it was agreed that June 29th would be celebrated all over the world. Scleroderma day grew from zero to world scleroderma day in 2 years, and is celebrated in countries in Europe, Australia, Canada, Brazil, India and many more countries.
The first poster for Scleroderma Day
Text on the first poster said:
June 29: European Scleroderma Day
More Than Skin Deep
Scleroderma is the name given to a group of rare conditions that can damage the skin and internal organs through scarring and poor blood supply. A complex disease of the immune system, blood vessels, and connective tissue, it is hard to diagnose as its symptoms vary from person to person. But early diagnosis is critical to prevent the worst complications, and treatment is available. The Federation of European Scleroderma Associations (FESCA) believes that people with scleroderma should have equal access to treatments and care.
What is scleroderma?
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease that causes hardening of the skin and internal organs.
It affects people differently, and early diagnosis is crucial for better outcomes.
The condition can impact physical, emotional, and social well-being, making awareness and understanding essential.
Learn more & get involved