I'm taking part in #DyeItForDravet this year because I want to do everything I can to advance the Dravet Syndrome Foundation (DSF)'s progress toward a cure.

In the 7 months that I've been working for DSF, I've been inspired by the incredible tenacity of the Dravet syndrome community, especially the true grit of the parents who face profound trials and tribulations daily. Imagine the horror of rushing your seizing child to the ER and hearing, "I'm sorry, but we have no specific treatment options to give you." That was the reality for Dravet patient families until just 15 years ago.

Since DSF's founding in 2009, they have funded more than $9.2 million in research grants and rallied the community to stay engaged, leading to three new FDA-approved Dravet-specific treatments.

TeamDSF isn't slowing down any time soon! Help us #CureDravet.

Dravet syndrome is a rare, severe form of epilepsy that begins in infancy, significantly impacting individuals throughout their lives. It affects approximately 1 in 15,700 people, most of whom carry a mutation in the sodium channel gene SCN1A. This condition is characterized by frequent, prolonged, and difficult-to-treat seizures, as well as developmental delays and other serious health issues such as movement and balance problems, speech delays, and chronic infections.

Living with Dravet syndrome requires constant care and significantly impacts the quality of life for both patients and their families. Current treatment options are limited, and there is a 15-20% mortality rate associated with this disease due to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), prolonged seizures, and seizure-related accidents. R.I.P to the warriors who were taken too soon. 

Despite these challenges, the Dravet syndrome community remains resilient. I care deeply about teamDSF and their warriors, who continue to fight bravely every day. By supporting this cause, we can help fund critical research for improved treatments and provide hope for a better quality of life for those affected by Dravet syndrome.

Your support matters. 100% of your gift is tax-deductible and supports life-changing research. Join me in spreading awareness and making a difference. Together, we can help bring about the change needed for these families. Please consider helping me reach my $500 goal.

Thank you for your generosity and support!