How you can help Madison and other children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy...

Madison Rose Reed, Dublin, Ohio, was born with a relatively unknown genetic neuromuscular disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).  SMA is a group of inherited diseases that destroy the nerve cells called motor neurons controlling voluntary movements such as crawling, walking, head and neck control and swallowing.

Here are a couple of startling facts about SMA.  One in 40 people is a carrier of the SMA gene.  There is a 1-in-4 chance of passing this gene along, thus having an affected child.  One in 6,000 live births is affected.  SMA is the leading genetic killer of children under the age of two.

Madison was diagnosed with the most severe and life-threatening form of this disease, Type 1, also known as Werdnig-Hoffman Disease.

We have joined forces with the Ohio State University to support research for SMA and to develop a clinic at OSU dedicated to SMA.  It is our belief that the best hope for our children lies in the commitment of funds toward this clinic and in the research to find a cure.  Already, OSU has led the way in blood testing to diagnose SMA.  In addition, OSU is raising mice that carry the SMA gene.  Within these mice lies the potential cure for this dreadful disease.

We will keep you informed of other events we plan to conduct to support the OSU clinic and research.  Thank you for your generous contribution and help to find a cure!

Make a tax-deductible donation to:

Miracle for Madison Fund for SMA Research at OSU
Account #531554
Ohio State Medical Center Development
Attention:  Vickie Van Allen
1375 Perry St., 5th floor, Columbus, OH 43201

 

Supported by SMA Support.