This is our third annual fundraising golf outing, “Eagles for Eleni”. All the proceeds from this event directly benefit the Cure Juvenile Myositis Foundation (Cure JM).  This non for profit organization helps fund research to help find a cure for Juvenile Dermatomyositis.  At this time, there is no cure for this disease. 

Eleni was diagnosed with Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM) in April 2010.  JDM is an autoimmune disease that attacks the skin and muscle.  The most common symptoms are a unique facial rash, and muscle weakness.  There are many more complications from this disease, of which can be extremely debilitating.

Eleni has made huge strides over the last two years. She has been tapered from eight medications, down to one, and we hope for continual improvement. We feel very blessed that physically and emotionally, she has experienced no significant issues, and our goal is for her to continue to fight to achieve remission.  Eleni has completed kindergarten this past year, and is looking forward to entering the first grade. 

The past golf events in 2010 and 2011 were extremely successful, solely because of you.  Our committee continues to be impressed by your overwhelming support for this important cause.  Our two year total is very close to $35,000, of which all proceeds have benefited the Cure JM Foundation.  Thank you for your generosity over the past two years.  We cannot thank you enough for your previous donations. 

There is still work to do, and we are asking for your help again.  We continually hear about new cases of JDM in our community.  The disease affects approximately two in every one million children annually.  The event this year is scheduled for Sunday, August 26, 2012 at the Bliss Creek Golf Club.  We hope to see you at the outing.

If you cannot attend the event, we would appreciate any monetary donations, raffle prizes, or hole sponsorships.  We feel very lucky to be surrounded by family, friends, and a community that support Eleni, and all of those suffering from JDM.  We believe that research, education, awareness, and faith will ultimately make the difference in what the future holds for Eleni’s health.  Thank your for your efforts, and we look forward to seeing you at the event.  THANKS AGAIN !

Sincerely,

Angelo, Kelly, Eleni, and Loukas Vatianou