Today, Ms. Ellyn Parsons spoke to the Ridge View faculty and staff about her granddaughter, Eliza O'Neill. Eliza was diagnosed with Sanfilippo Sydrome-Type A, Sanfilippo Syndrome is a rare terminal neurological genetic disease in which children are missing an enzyme necessary for normal cellular function. The good news is that are research teams who have discovered a gene therapy cure that has been successful in animal testing. The bad news - due to the government shut down, this research has been placed on hold. So, the O'Neills have teamed with other families around the world to raise $2.5 million over the next 9 months.
Glenn O'Neill is asking for our help. He shares this message, "We hope for the students joining us in this cause, that the experience will also be educational. Not only from the aspects of the disease, but also life lessons. Set your goals and drive towards them no matter what they may be. Along the way you might come across what may seem like insurmountable hurdles, but you push forward." We are also asking for you to help us in this cause. If you donate to help fund the clinical trial, click the picture of Eliza on the right. WLTX also broadcasted this story on October 12th. If you would like to see their story, click here.
