May 5, 2026—On Wednesday, May 6, Massachusetts marks the fourth annual Moyamoya Disease Awareness Day—a meaningful opportunity to shine a light on a rare but serious neurological condition and the importance of early detection and research.
Credit Unions Kids at Heart® and participating credit unions across the Commonwealth are once again leading efforts to raise awareness and support critical research initiatives. Among these are ongoing studies at Boston Children’s Hospital, a recognized leader in the diagnosis and treatment of Moyamoya disease.
Moyamoya disease is a progressive condition in which the blood vessels supplying the brain gradually narrow, restricting blood flow. The term “Moyamoya,” meaning “puff of smoke” in Japanese, describes the appearance of the tangled network of tiny blood vessels that form as the body attempts to compensate for blocked arteries.
Without treatment, Moyamoya can lead to serious health complications, including strokes and long-term neurological effects such as cognitive impairment, speech and communication challenges, vision issues, and behavioral changes. While it can affect individuals of any age, it is most often diagnosed in school-aged children.
Awareness is critical because early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes. In children, warning signs may include stroke-like symptoms such as slurred speech, severe headaches, sudden weakness or numbness, or seizures. In adults, the condition may present as bleeding in the brain. Prompt medical evaluation is essential.
Although Moyamoya is a serious diagnosis, there is also reason for optimism. Surgical treatment can restore blood flow to the brain and dramatically reduce the risk of stroke, and less invasive nonsurgical treatments are being developed. With appropriate care, many patients go on to lead full, active lives.
Through advocacy efforts led by Credit Unions Kids at Heart®, the credit union community continues to make a meaningful difference.
For a schedule of Moyamoya Awareness Day activities, including local proclamations, municipal building and bridge lighting, and other observances, as well as a list of credit union and community supporters, please visit www.creditunionskidsatheart.org.