Fun Advocacy Ask: Name a Baby Zebra After a Rare Disease Warrior!
Want to raise rare disease awareness in a fun, unexpected way? Try this: Call or email your local zoo that has zebras and ask if you or your child can be considered for naming rights the next time a baby zebra is born. Share your rare disease story and explain why the zebra—our powerful symbol of rarity, strength, and visibility—matters so much to your family.
It’s a beautiful way to connect with your community, educate others, and maybe even leave a legacy at your local zoo.
Here is an email template:
Subject: A Special Request: Honoring Rare Disease Awareness with a Baby Zebra Name
Dear [Zoo Name or Specific Contact if known],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m a [parent of a child with a rare disease / rare disease patient / rare disease advocate] in [City/State]. I'm reaching out with a special request that blends awareness, community, and the spirit of something truly rare—your zebras.
As you may know, the zebra is the official symbol of the rare disease community. Just like every zebra’s stripes are unique, so are the journeys of the 30 million Americans living with a rare disease. For my family, this symbol has become deeply meaningful, representing resilience, uniqueness, and visibility in a world that often overlooks us.
With that in mind, I’d love to ask if you would consider naming a future baby zebra in honor of my [child / myself / family member] or another rare disease warrior. It would mean the world to our family and help shine a light on the need for better awareness, equity, and compassion for those affected by rare conditions.
I’d be happy to share our story with you and even visit or participate in any awareness effort you may be open to. Please let me know if this is something you’d consider now or in the future.
Thank you for your time—and for caring about both animals and the rare humans who walk alongside them.
Warmly,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Info]
[City, State]
[Optional: Link to a blog, social media, or advocacy page]
