The organization was incorporated on August 3, 1974. It is the only citizen group generating a concerted, organized lay movement to eradicate Reye's Syndrome. Although believed to be primarily a children's disease, Reye's Syndrome can strike any age, gender, and race. Typically following a viral illness (cold, influenza, chicken pox, etc.), Reye's Syndrome affects all organs of the body, but targets the liver and the brain. Early diagnosis is essential if treatment is to be successful. To date, the cause and cure remain a mystery. Studies have shown that using aspirin and salicylate-containing medications to treat the symptoms of viral illnesses increases the chance of developing Reye's Syndrome.