Teva Pharmaceuticals, the US affiliate of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, has partnered with actor, comedian, and advocate Will Forte to raise awareness of Huntington’s disease (HD), a rare and progressive neurological disorder affecting more than 41,000 Americans. 

 

HD causes cognitive, behavioral, and physical challenges, including involuntary movements known as HD chorea, which can disrupt daily life.

 

As Teva’s new Honestly HD ambassador, Forte is sharing his family’s personal journey with HD to connect those living with the disease to educational resources and support.

 

Forte’s connection to HD began through his wife, Olivia. The couple met as Olivia’s father, Dr. Douglas Modling Jr, faced advancing HD and prepared to enter an assisted living facility. Her brother, Douglas III — known as Doug — was diagnosed in 2022 and has found comfort in connecting with others living with HD. Witnessing their resilience inspired Forte to learn more about the disease, support his brother-in-law, and join Olivia’s family in advocacy efforts.

 

“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," Forte said. 

 

"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 can cause uncoordinated movements, cognitive decline, and behavioral or psychological challenges. Around 90% of patients develop chorea, which can involve fidgeting, squirming, or jerking movements affecting the hands, face, limbs, torso, speech, and mobility. While chorea is just one symptom, it often significantly limits daily activities — a challenge Teva is committed to addressing.

 

“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 of US 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.”