Will Forte Partners with Teva to Launch “Honestly HD”—A Candid Conversation About Huntington’s Disease
Teva Pharmaceuticals, a U.S. affiliate of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA), today announced a partnership with actor, comedian and advocate, Will Forte, to increase awareness of Huntington’s disease (HD). HD, a rare, progressive neurological disorder, affects more than 41,000 people in the U.S. and causes cognitive, behavioral and physical challenges, including HD chorea, which are involuntary movements that often impact daily life.1,3 As Teva’s new Honestly HD ambassador, Will is sharing his own family’s story with HD to help connect people navigating the disease with educational resources and inspiration.
Will’s introduction to the world of HD came through his wife, Olivia. They met when Olivia’s father, Dr. Douglas Modling Jr., was experiencing progression in his HD symptoms and about to enter an assisted living facility for additional care. Her brother, Douglas III (known as Doug), was diagnosed in 2022 and has found comfort in connecting with others living with HD. Inspired by their strength, Will began learning more about the disease, supporting his brother-in-law and joining Olivia’s family in advocating for the HD community.
“Seeing firsthand the challenges my brother-in-law faces, and his enduring hope despite it all, I’m incredibly inspired by the resilience of everyone I’ve met from the HD community. That’s why I’m sharing our story — to help raise awareness of this disease and let people know they are not alone, and that there are resources available to support them,” said Will. “It’s a hope I share with Teva — that we can empower people with stories like my family’s, or those beginning to experience symptoms like chorea, to connect with resources like Honestly HD and help preserve their independence for as long as possible.”
HD is characterized by uncoordinated and uncontrollable movements, cognitive deterioration, and behavioral and/or psychological challenges.1 About 90% of people with HD will develop chorea, which manifests as involuntary body movements such as fidgeting, squirming or jerking that can affect the hands, face, limbs, torso, speech, and mobility.2 While it’s not the only symptom of HD, chorea can have a significant impact on daily activities and progressively limit peoples’ lives, which is why is committed to supporting this community.
We believe that progress starts with understanding, and that means listening to the real relationships and experiences that define the HD community every day,” said Heather DeMyers, Vice President, U.S. Innovative Medicines Marketing at Teva. “Will and Doug’s story captures the perseverance of so many families impacted by this disease. Their experience is one of inspiration, hope, and the importance of community — embodying the values of Teva’s work with Honestly HD as we strive to bring greater empathy and awareness to those navigating this disease.
About Teva
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. a leading innovative biopharmaceutical company, enabled by a world-class generics business. For over 120 years, Teva’s commitment to bettering health has never wavered. From innovating in the fields of neuroscience and immunology to providing complex generic medicines, biosimilars and pharmacy brands worldwide, is dedicated to addressing patients’ needs, now and in the future. At Teva, We Are All In For Better Health.
Source Link: https://www.tevapharm.com/
