Please help me support Girl Power 2 Cure in their efforts to raise funds for research for Rett Syndrome. This is my 9th year running with Team GP2C and the second time that I will be running the 5K while pushing Allison along with me! Allison is my beautiful 21 year old daughter who has Rett Syndrome. 

Rett Syndrome is a debilitating neurological disorder that predominantly affects females (but can also affect boys). Rett Syndrome is the leading genetic cause of severe neurological impairment in girls and is characterized by a single gene mutation that leads to underproduction of an important brain protein known as MECP2. Kids are born “normal,” but without the protein, begin to lose acquired skills between 1 and 3 years old. Most lose their ability to speak, walk or use their hands, and depend on their families for every part of their day. We watched Allison lose her words, hand function, and play skills starting around 15 months old. She was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome a few months after her 2nd birthday.

Despite their physical disabilities, girls and boys with Rett Syndrome function at a similar cognitive level to their peers. Amidst the mass confusion in their central nervous systems, they are smart, strong, and waiting bravely for us to unlock the door to a cure and their recovery. Allison lives a full life, participating in her school's vocational program, expressing her needs and wants with her non-verbal actions or her eye gaze computer, and is a cherished member of her family. 

Rett Syndrome is potentially CURABLE! Mouse and primate experimental treatments have proven that once MECP2 protein levels are restored to normal levels, symptoms subside. Several companies have started clinical trials that focus on gene therapy treatments, which have shown promising results thus far. Girl Power 2 Cure supports this research!! 

Thank you for your donation! YOUR HELP IS OUR HOPE!

Love, Robin & Allison