Thank you for clicking on our family's fundraising page in honor of my mother, MariaLuisa Rodena.  On August 13, 2011, we lost my mother to this terrible and rare disease.  From the start of her symptoms, she quickly declined 6 weeks later.  We barely even found out her diagnosis when we lost her 8 days after that.  The worst thing you can hear from your medical experts is that there is no treatment and there is nothing left to do but keep her comfortable and at peace.  My mother was an active and lively woman and if this disease had not succumbed her I know she would of lived decades more.  Since this is such a rare disease, we are hoping that future families have at least a have a fighting chance and have some form of treatment for their loved ones.  The first step is raising money for awareness.  Awareness allows people to find out what this condition is and brings awareness to lawmakers who vote to allocate funds to research such as finding a cure for CJD.  Research is the next step.  We need scientists, researchers, and doctors to collaborate to find treatments and hopefully cures for a condition like CJD.  Lastly, the CJD foundation educates and allows families with loved ones diagnosed with CJD to use the many resources they have to cope and go through steps post losing a loved one with CJD.  Hopefully if you have read this far, that you would kindly donate even a dollar or join our virtual walk or run team to honor my mother and raise awareness for this disease.

Thanks,

     Jackie, Henry, and Ivan Rodena